Category: Drawing Things Together

Transmission Model, 2009

As we kick off the new semester, I am reminded that when talking about both learning theory, and the role of technology in learning, it is quite common to contrast new theories with the “straw man” teacher who believes in the transmission model of learning.  In other words, the idea that knowledge can just be presented to students who are like sponges and will just soak it all up…

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categories Drawing Things Together | Joshua January 13, 2010

  • Maggie
    Learning to beat the system, I think.
  • Also, take a gander at all the information they're missing because it wasn't aimed directly at them.
  • Steve
    a sad use of technology - I would have killed for a wireless setup in my classroom.... however, the teacher as a node/router hoping that assimilation and accommodation is taking place via streaming information - teacher-led instruction at its best???? they are smiling as if they may have some sort of prior knowledge???? it could be a start. perhaps it's the ISTEP question being embedded into their brains with hopes they will be able to regurgitate .... ooops Johnnys sponge went dry the morning of the test, go figure!!
  • Absolutely! Sadly, this kind of teaching approach and / or use of technology for teaching is all too common. I'm glad to see that everyone's response so far has been... critical. I'd have been worried had anyone said "Hey, where I can I get that router!!"
  • I see that in this view, the teacher is presented as transmitter. How would a transmitter even begin to eat an apple, anyway?
  • Really makes you wonder what these kids might be learning with this method, doesn't it?
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