CFT is a very interesting theory and I agree that these “ill-structured” and complex learning situations should not be taught in the same way as straightforward content. I like how in this model, simple solutions aren’t provided and multiple cases are presented for students to compare and form their own ideas for how to solve cases and how to create mental models that will help with new cases. This model is very representative of real-world situations.
CFT would be a great model for me to use in my teaching, but of course, barriers would be that it will take a lot of planning and resources. I like to think I will incorporate this model in the future. Maybe I can start off in small lessons. The best example for me to use this model is a type of testing I teach called Intraoperative Neurophysiologic Monitoring. This model is perfect because it takes into consideration the extreme demands, and the radically, quickly changing environment in the operating room (OR). In the OR monitoring environment, workers must be able to move and make decisions very quickly. Plus, since every case may have different challenges, workers must be able to apply their knowledge to a variety of situations, hence the importance of the flexibility aspect of this model. Interestingly enough, these OR monitoring surgeries are actually called “cases” so this seems to be a pretty natural fit. I like the way the model provides multiple content representations. This is very useful for learning situations where there are multiple solutions or no one right way to accomplish a task.
For multimedia, I think videos, photos, and audio clips will be very useful for this theory. These will help students create their own mental model probably better than simply text alone. Delivering this model via the Web can be accomplished many, many different ways. There is always the more expensive route of actually hiring developers to build super modules. The budget approach would be to use static web pages with lots of external links to useful websites, and possibly embedding youtube/vimeo/etc… videos, audio clips, and photos. Simulation software would also useful in certain learning situations, such as medical procedures.
I am interested to learn more about how this theory supposedly changes the way students store and structure their knowledge. I have a hard time believing that this theory alone will have a significant impact on how flexible they will be with the knowledge gained from the theory. I think most of this is innate, but I can see where this model can someone manifest these qualities.
Sorry it took me so long to post this week. My post was written earlier, but I was gone to a conference and surprisingly didn’t have Internet to actually post it until now.
