Session 8: Goal Based Scenarios

What are your initial reactions to this theory/model? What are barriers to its use? What benefits might be expected for those who overcome the barriers?

 I completely agree with the authors that traditional methods of instruction do not teach students to learn skills, and that teaching is concentrated on imparting factual knowledge.  GBS differs in the fact that students learn "how to"  rather than "know this."  (Schank, 3)  My initial reaction to this model was positive.  In fact, I have been teaching in this style for many years, although I did not realize it was GBS. In my computer classes, I use GBS abot 90% of the time.  Computer courses are more adaptable to this model than are lecture courses, therefore, I don't use it as often in these types of courses.  Some of the barriers to using the GBS model that this method may not work as well with lower level students.  This model focuses on real-world applications and some students may not have been exposed to certain situations.  For example, using GBS to help students learn about online security and safety issues may not be relevant to the student who does not have access to, or not literate with a computer and the internet.  For students that over come these barriers, they will certainly have more "real world" knowledge than before the lesson. 

Would you attempt to use this theory/model with the students you are currently teaching or hope to teach in the future? Why or why not? Could elements of the theory/model be modified so that it would work with your current/future students?

Currently, I employ this method quite frequently in my computer courses.  Rather than teach the curriculum directly from my curriculum guide, I develop real world scenarios for them to complete.  For example, when teaching about publications, I have students create a flyer for an upcoming yard sale or event they are having.  I have them create a card for a loved one, etc.

Since we're taking learning theories/models that were not necessarily created with the Web in mind and turning them into Web modules, what Web-based tools or resources could be leveraged to carry out this learning theory/model online?

The same curriculum structure used in the classroom can most certainly be used on the web.  Using Microsoft Sky Drive; GoogleDocs; or even creating a web page are excellent curriculum ideas for this method.  One caveat is that the teacher must be available to provide "just in time" help for students that are struggling. Otherwise, these students may become frustrated and shut down.

he core of a GBS is a simulated task that makes clear to participants what skills they need and why, what problems they are likely to encounter, and when, what is the most effective means for dealing with those problems, and why they are effective."   Further, Schank, Berman, and Macpherson decribe GBS as a "learn-by-doing simulation in which students pursure a goal by practicing target skills and using relevant content knowledge to help them achieve their goal."