Approaches to Intervention in the Learning Sciences (EDUC 8348)
All research intervenes, and learning sciences research is no exception. But what forms do interventions in the learning sciences take? This seminar explores three different models of intervention research in the learning sciences: cultural-historical, systemic design-based research, and scaling up/experimental research. We will analyze cases that illustrate each model, cases selected because of their broad impact on thinking of different groups of learning scientists today. Readings will provide students in the seminar with opportunities to compare and contrast the theoretical and practical commitments of the different models, results from specific studies, and impacts on research and practice. A practicum experience at El Pueblo Mágico, an afterschool program at Sanchez Elementary School in Lafayette, will give students a direct encounter with one of the cases. A culminating project will provide students with an opportunity to synthesize what they have learned by developing a proposal for research and development of an intervention that could enhance the El Pueblo Mágico program and that follows the guidelines of a current program announcement of the National Science Foundation.
Syllabus
Strategic Education Research Partnership (SERP)
Link to Syllabus (via ISLS Syllabi Webpage)
Link to Syllabus (via LMU Syllabi Collection Webpage)
Network of Academic Programs in the Learning Sciences (NAPLeS)
International Society of the Learning Sciences (ISLS)
Penuel, W. R. (2011). Approaches to Intervention in the Learning Sciences. ISLS. https://www.isls.org/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/approaches-to-intervention_penuel.pdf