I guess I noticed this information on page 131 because it is the area of teaching I'm involved in at the moment...but I've noticed and known this truth since forever. Learning can come through verbal instruction and visual instruction. Deep learning can come through the use of the arts if it is done well. In the chapter about teaching specific types of knowledge, Marzano relates research that shows deep and lasting learning comes by using Dramatic Instruction. This type of teaching is specifically great for teaching details. "This type of instruction has the strongest effects both immediately after instruction and one year later." I have had some experience using drama and more with dance and music. I wonder if they would show equal value with drama...I think so.
I remember a situation where a group of teachers at a workshop became riders on a bus during the civil rights era. All it took was a few rows of chairs. Everything else was in our head. I will never forget the feelings of that experience.
I used the drama connection at the end of my lesson plan because I thought it would be a great way for students to use the information they had gathered and apply it through drama. I gave the option of writing a poem or song lyrics. I think as with other methods, this kind of teaching needs to be done well. I hope to include more drama in my teaching.
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Sounds like a great lesson. I believe that the more emotion is involved with a lesson like that, the more the students will get out of it and remember.
ReplyDeleteOne of the most memorable and effective teachers that I have had the pleasure to teach with was very comfortable with bringing drama into the classroom, he dressed up and acted the parts of various characters in history. He was so good at it, very committed to the part, dramatic and effective. The kids would talk about it all day!
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