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Alternative Modes of Teaching and Learning

Alternative modes of delivery

Resource-based learning

Definition

A variant of distance education on-site which uses materials as the basis of instruction.

Pearson, M. and L. Ford, Open & Flexible PhD Study and Research, Evaluations & Investigations Program. 1997, Australia: H.E. Div, DEETYA.

Higher education providers are increasingly turning to resource-based learning as a means of coping with the conflicting demands to produce ever higher standards of curriculum delivery when, at the same time, conditions of work for both students and staff are declining ... They want to see that specified learning outcomes contained in the course or module descriptors are demonstrably available to students on their learning programmes. One way to make this visible is by the production of learning resources in which everything is clearly specified. The onus is then on the students to demonstrate learning rather than on the teaching team to show what has been delivered.
Resource-based learning is also valuable in helping tutors to cope with the diversity of student need. When curriculum delivery is principally available at set times and in set places, the opportunities for students with jobs, forwarding commitments, mobility problems and so on to commit themselves to advanced study are limited. Resource-based learning at its best provides ways for students to learn at their own pace, at all times of the day, often in locations convenient to them, and it also provides back-ups for absentees.

Brown, S. and B. Smith, Introducing Resources for Learning, in Resource-Based Learning, S. Brown and B. Smith, Editors. 1996, Kogan Page Ltd: London. p. 1 - 9.

Resource-based learning is a philosophy of education and a methodology for teaching and learning. It involves the achievement of both subject and information literacy objectives through exposure to and practise with diverse resources. Students become active learners as they use a wide range of materials to investigate subject material prescribed within their classroom curriculum. Teachers and librarians become motivators and facilitators in the learning process and provide the initial subject impetus which drives students to seek information and become creative problem-solvers. The end result is that a "learning culture" is fostered as a climate of active and productive learning is encouraged.

from Resource-Based Learning
http://stauffer.queensu.ca/inforef/tutorials/rbl/index.htm

Advantages

• Frees the teacher from the burden of delivering content while allowing a greater focus on facilitating student learning
• Allows students control of place, pace and time
• Allows students far greater choice in what resource material to use and how to engage with it
• Resources can be used in multiple units and potentially across disciplines

Disadvantages

• Potentially too many choices for some students to comfortably navigate through
• Potential loss of group learning opportunities
• Time and effort required to produce high quality resources may be high

Resources and References