Friday, April 15, 2011

Cognitive Flexibility Model

     When I initially began reading the articles, I thought that this is more complex than the other models previously discussed in this course.  Basically, as Jacobson’s article points out, “CFT is a “multi-faceted” complexity of knowledge, CFT uses multiple themes, schemas, analogies, intellectual points of view in instructional activities.”  CFT is also grounded into case based learning/reasoning.  Cases are used to build knowledge around “real world” situations.  This model ties into constructivism and experiential learning.  The neat idea of CFT is that the knowledge and/or content overlaps.  Learner’s should be able to assess and evaluate various ways to approach a problem from a variety of resources.   The Learner’s are making connections with the CFT model.  I think that in order for student’s to benefit the most from this model, is that authentic and “real-world” situations/problems should be provided.  It is equally important as to how the information or problem is represented.  With the CFT model, I definitely agree with the readings, that learner’s will take away more from this type of model.  They gradually build upon their own prior knowledge and they will likely recall what they have learned.  As with the other models discussed, the integration of multi-media options would be endless.  It seems that anything is possible and enhanced with the use of technology and creates a rich learning experience.  The disadvantages of course would be the time involved needed to design this model, expense, the ability level of the teacher would need to be taken into consideration and possibly designed from a team oriented approach. 

This is a cute comic that represents CFT:



3 comments:

  1. Donia - that cartoon is perfect! Wherever did you find it?

    This model seemed a lot more complicated when we were reading about it versus when we were participating in Kevin's assignment. One thing I thought about often, while reading about the Alabama plantation, were all the connections I, personally, could make since I have visited and toured Somerset Place (a rice farm slave plantation near the east coast of the state) two or three times. I feel students who don't have that prior knowledge would have a difficult time reading the transcribed letters and making the interpretations necessary to authentically understand some of the underlying messages and information they contained. Maybe a virtual tour in the form of a video would be helpful for the typical learner?

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  2. Donia: Great post, hilarious comic strip. I think the guy in the clown suit must be a MOST media fan. Find that bubba a puppet to talk to!
    Kristy: I agree, a typical school student would find the letters surrealistic without some background knowledge about the slave era. Eventually I resorted to a great website, http://carmichael.lib.virginia.edu/story/slavecare.html. I had to reference it a bit and recommend it for co-use for the module on slavery. Jus' my take.
    Al

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  3. I like how you explained part of this theory with: "They gradually build upon their own prior knowledge and they will likely recall what they have learned." That makes sense to me putting it that way.

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