Connecting forward: Applying concepts beyond the classroom

By asking students to apply or search out examples of course concepts beyond the classroom, you can help them see how class content tangibly impacts the world around them. In this video, Tina Grotzer demonstrates how and why she asks students to take their learning beyond their weekly lecture.

Profiled: Tina Grotzer, Principal Research Scientist in Education, teaches "Applying Cognitive Science to Teaching and Learning" to 35 students at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Classroom Considerations

Model real-world examples of what was covered in class for students. For example, you could open class by presenting a newspaper article that connects to the day’s learning.
Prompt students by suggesting particular places or areas where they can be on the lookout for real-life examples.

Relevant Research

Kamarainen et al. demonstrate that teaching science in a way that is meaningful and relevant to students is linked to learning gains and affective gains for students (2013).
Application of scientific knowledge in real-word contexts and engagement of students’ own perspectives can promote transfer beyond the classroom (Dede, 2009).

Related Resources

Vancouver University’s Centre for Innovation and Excellence in Learning provides a list of ten teaching practices that can build metacognition in students.