1. Assessment of Prior Knowledge and Learning Styles: This initial step involves determining the learners' existing knowledge base, identifying learning gaps, and understanding individual learning preferences (visual, auditory, kinesthetic, etc.). For teaching, this informs lesson planning and material selection. For learning, it provides a benchmark and highlights areas needing focused attention.
2. Clear Objective Setting and Goal Definition: Both teacher and learner need clearly defined, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals. For teaching, this translates to specific learning outcomes. For learning, this provides direction and motivation. This step ensures everyone is working towards the same targets.
3. Instruction and Content Delivery: This step focuses on the actual teaching/learning process. Teachers employ appropriate methods (lectures, discussions, activities, projects) aligned with the learning objectives and styles identified in step 1. Learners actively participate, seeking clarification and engaging with the material.
4. Practice and Application: This stage emphasizes active learning through various exercises, problem-solving activities, and real-world application of learned concepts. Feedback is crucial, allowing for adjustments in understanding and technique. For teaching, this involves providing opportunities for practice and constructive feedback. For learning, it involves actively using the acquired knowledge and skills.
5. Assessment and Evaluation: This final step involves evaluating the effectiveness of the teaching/learning process. Formal and informal assessments (tests, quizzes, projects, observations) are used to measure progress toward the goals defined in step 2. The results inform future teaching strategies and guide further learning efforts. This step is iterative; findings should inform steps 1-4 in future cycles.