RSA # 3 Resource Based Learning

http://web.a.ebscohost.com.cucproxy.cuchicago.edu/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=22&sid=fddef8f2-db62-4d78-86b8-e71b9b97433e%40sessionmgr4004&hid=4101

Resource-based learning is an educational model where students are engaged in finding information on a topic by using a variety of print and non-print resources (Campbell, Flageolle, Griffith, & Wojcik, 2002).   With this model, students are presented with the different resources that were prepared by the teacher.  Students then select the resources that best help them with their assigned task. 

In the article, “Impacts of an Online-Supported, Resource Based Learning Environment: Does One Size Fit All?” the authors Armatas, Holt, and Rice also say that Resource Based learning demands that students actively engage with multiple learning resources with well articulated educational purpose (2003).  In other words, with this type of learning, students are the ones who are choosing information to help assist them in their search for learning.  This article took a look at a first year psychology course where they tested a resource based learning approach in an online form and a traditional on campus form.  One of the results of this study show that most of the students in both the online class and the on campus class saw value in the courses prescribed resources (2003).  The authors concluded that the high value that was given to these resources was most likely attributed to them being closely linked to the course assessment.  Since they were already  selected and linked to the assessment of the course, students can feel confident in their exploration of the material and know they will be learning what is necessary for the course. 

Resource based learning can offer benefits to students.  According to Campbell, Flageolle, Griffith, & Wojcik, one benefit is “students [will] learn to efficiently use almanacs, encyclopedias, atlases, databases, technology tools and other resources.” This show that they will benefit from this learning method because students will have experience using those sources and can apply those research skills in other areas.

Resource Based Learning can be a good way to allow students flexibility in their studies.  I feel that students can greatly benefit from this style as long as the different resources presented all cover the same information that is linked to the assessment. 

Armatas, C., Holt, D., & Rice, M. (2003). Impacts of an online-supported, resource-

            based learning environment: does one size fit all?. Distance education, 24(2),

            141-158. Retrieved from

            http://web.a.ebscohost.com.cucproxy.cuchicago.edu/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfvi

            ewer?vid=22&sid=fddef8f2-db62-4d78-86b8-

            e71b9b97433e%40sessionmgr4004&hid=4101

Campbell, L., Flageolle, P., Griffith, S., & Wojcik, C. (2002). Resource-based

            learning. In M. Orey (Ed.), Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching

and technology. Retrieved  from http://epltt.coe.uga.edu/