Answering
the Unknown Teaching Notes
Approximate Time Required
Skill Station: ~15 min class time
Group processing: 5 min after exercise
A.
Explain
the Need: Students often give up when they read something
they do not understand. This skill
station empowers them to approach the unknown by introducing a method to dismantle
difficult material. As they gain more
knowledge, the material becomes easier, encouraging further learning.
B.
Define
and Model: Combine this skill station with reading
assignments, research projects, or when students read the primary
literature. This approach is also used
during problem-based learning1.
Tailor
the reading in this skill station to your course content.
C.
Practice: Students
can do this skill station in class, as groups, or individually outside of
class. Assign and collect the results of
steps 1-5 to monitor their progress. Once
students are proficient, this approach is good for answering essay questions on
take-home examinations.
D.
Evaluate: Ask students
to share their progress with their groups.
E.
Feedback/Reflection: Ask students
to reflect on how they can improve their learning skills. Are there other approaches that work for
students to learn complex material?