An academic evaluation of the Dimensions of Learning model as a tool for curriculum integration
Abstract
Hampshire Unit School decided to take on the task of improving the professional development opportunities available for teachers by using research-based teaching strategies for classroom implementation. The professional development model used was the Dimension of Learning developed by the McRel Institute. The DOL model consists of five dimensions: Creating positive attitudes and perceptions; study habits and productive habits of mind, acquiring and integrating knowledge; extending and refining knowledge; and using knowledge meaningfully. To gauge the effectiveness of the integration of the teaching strategies and skills into the classroom setting, surveys were completed by ninety-two 9-12 grade students and five teachers who were involved in Gateway courses. This study will use a descriptive research design. Inferential statistics were used to test the null hypotheses: MANOVA, one sample t-test, and an ANOVA were the statistical test used to assess the data. The data suggested that pre-DOL implementation was effective in increasing students' performance in Biology I because the scores increased during the post-DOL implementation. The data also indicated that teachers' perceptions of implemented strategies did not change from pre implementation of DOL to post implementation of DOL. However, teachers perceived that the classroom tasks were more valuable, that they were able to create more comfort and order in the classroom, that students are more accepting of their peers, and teachers felt DOL strategies had been implemented. The data exposed that there was a difference in student's perception and attitude toward classroom tasks and the teachers' use of DOL strategies. This suggests that the teachers' use of DOL contributed to the students' perception in a positive light. The recommendations for further research on this topic are to examine the validity of the level of use scales for all Dimension practices through comparisons of self-report assessments with measures based on observations by external raters. Another recommendation is to study semantics qualities of students and teacher items and their correspondence.
Subject Area
Teacher education|Educational administration
Recommended Citation
Stan A Curtis,
"An academic evaluation of the Dimensions of Learning model as a tool for curriculum integration"
(2006).
ETD Collection for Tennessee State University.
Paper AAI3203849.
https://digitalscholarship.tnstate.edu/dissertations/AAI3203849