Learning Support

INTRODUCTION

Applied learning is a process of integrating one or more subject matter content areas (disciplines) under study with authentic (personal, home, career, community, society) learning experiences. The unique aspect of applied learning is the degree to which it provides experience in the problem solving process; the manipulative use of tools, equipment, materials and related techniques; personal skills; occupational awareness and safety; and employment literacy. This applied integration of learning contexts is applied learning’s major function. Applied learning is an effective strategy for learning many of the skills and concepts embodied in the subject matter. It should be used whenever possible. Applied learning relates directly to content and performance standards developed for all subjects.

Applied learning is the delivery of curriculum within a relevant context. If learning experiences are to be challenging, coherent, and aimed at developing the full range of students’ capabilities, then curriculum content and method must be interrelated and interconnected. Formerly separate disciplines must be seen as mutually dependent and jointly aimed at enriching the continual educational growth and development of each individual student. Schools and communities must view learning as an integrated activity, connecting ideas and understandings within and across disciplines and between school and performance environments outside of school. Applied learning must be embedded in the teaching and learning process, rather than “delivered” throughout a student’s career out of context. It must be dynamic, rich with information about student capabilities, potentials and progress, and career preparation. It must be motivating to students, teacher, administrators, community individuals, and involve business and industry representatives. Applied learning illuminates content standards and the performance standards necessary for reaching them.

Applied learning is based on principles articulated in a wide range of program career path guide, program framework, and model curriculum standards documents. Applied learning:

• Is authentic, providing learners with tasks and situations that require higher-order thinking, and include applications of knowledge, elements of career awareness, career exploration, and complex, integrated (content) manipulative performances
• Provides multiple ways for students to demonstrate their knowledge and skill
• Enables teachers and their applied learning colleagues to assess student growth in a cumulative, longitudinal fashion, incorporating many kinds of evidence
• Is integrally tied to model curriculum standard documents

Applied learning standards are common across all grade levels. Specific activities and samples of student work are developed by grade level span to demonstrate age-appropriate delivery of Applied Learning standards