TDG – Development of Moodle-Enhanced Case-Based Learning for Pre-Service and In-Service Teachers on Classroom Learning

Abstract

This curriculum and teaching innovation project employs problem-centred and case-based learning enhanced by a Moodle-based learning environment to promote students’ domain knowledge and 21st century education skills. This is a required course in “Classroom Learning and Student Development” in Faculty of Education, taught by around 10 tutors in small groups of around 20-30 students; student intake now range from secondary to primary and ECE teachers. The curriculum design is premised on principles of Learning Sciences emphasizing authentic learning, metacognitive understanding, and collaborative inquiry. Student teachers respond to one of the three case studies weekly on Moodle forum before they attend class, they engage in collaborative problem solving in class, and use jigsaw approach to teach each other, relating the cases and discussion to principles and experience. The Moodle system provides easy access to multi-media materials; supports collaborative problem solving on forum; assessment is designed to align with the curriculum goals culminating in student portfolios. Output of project include (i) case-base Moodle design that can be adapted for designing courses in different disciplinary areas; (ii) curriculum and case-based materials on classroom learning and student development; (iii) an evaluation study showing the impacts of the course on students’ beliefs and approaches to learning.

Deliverables