A Contextual Teaching and Learning (CTL) program with the theme of environmental technology was:

• Coordinated by ATEEC at the Eastern Iowa Community College District;
• Sponsored by the University of Wisconsin’s Center on Education and Work; and
• Supported by the U.S. Department of Education.

With a unifying theme of environmental technology, 25 TeachNET teachers from the Iowa Quad Cities area participated in workplace and community experiences. Click here for a list of participating teachers and local projects. During a University of Wisconsin workshop, the teachers developed:

1. Classroom strategies that promote CTL, and
2. Professional development plans to distribute to their colleagues.

Three other TeachNET projects took place in:

• Rochester, NY
• Beaverton, OR
• Auburn, WA

 

Contextual Teaching and Learning (CTL)

The heart of contextual teaching and learning strategies is the emphasis upon involving the teacher and students in real-life applications of concepts. While good teachers have been using CTL elements for years, the University of Wisconsin researched the question of what support was needed to assist teachers in what might be called a wider, deeper implementation of CTL strategies. The elements of CTL are:

• Uses problem-based methods
• Draws upon student diversity
• Involves multiple contexts
• Uses interdependent work groups
• Supports self-regulated learning
• Employs authentic assessment

For more information on the elements of CTL, click here.