Setting-Specific Learning Environments

Abstract

Learning environments, as defined in the previous chapter as necessarily having intentionality, may not cover all of the aspects of the formal instruction. Such learning environments are classified as “setting-specific” in that they create a setting to address specific instructional needs. As such, they are adapted wherever they are adopted to fit the target's culture and needs, and different implementations may look somewhat different. Because of their restriction to specific settings, these particular learning environments are able to be used within the same course or formal instruction. We present five keystone setting-specific learning environments and classify them into three distinct families: integrating pedagogy in reformed physical spaces (SCALE-UP), engagement within the lecture setting (Peer Instruction and Interactive Lecture Demonstrations), and cooperative learning outside the lecture setting (Tutorials and Cooperative Problem Solving). We discuss the features that make each of these examples a learning environment and describe key areas of research conducted within the keystone examples as well as some adaptations made from those examples.