Application of self-determination and self-regulation theories to course design: planting the seeds for adaptive expertise

• Autores: Linda Vanasupa, Jonathan Stolk, Trevor Harding
• Localización: The International journal of engineering education, ISSN-e 0949-149X, Vol. 26, no. Extra 4, 2010, págs. 914-929
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • The paper is grounded in the premise that learning occurs within a dynamic system of social and ecological interactions in the learningenvironment. Our intent is to open the conversation about how we, as engineering educators, design effective learning experiences forthis dynamic system, particularly in light of the deeply ethical, adaptive expertise required of today’s graduates. Drawing from twowell-researched theories of psychological development (self-determination and self-regulation), we assert that fostering the engagementand positive growth required for adaptive expertise necessitates a holistic educational approach. This approach requires us to considerboth the psychological needs of the learner, and the interaction between ecological factors and these psychological needs. We present adynamic systems simulation model that is based on key concepts from self-determination and self-regulation theory. The model linksfactors in the learning environment, or ‘ecological factors,’ to outcomes related to student learning. To demonstrate that the modelsimulates the observed behavior of the system, we compare model simulations with student motivation measures in three learningsituations that were designed and implemented by the authors. The evidence highlights the dramatic influence of ecological factors: highand low intrinsic motivations in different situations, and strong correlations between students’ motivational orientations and ecologicalfactors. Comparison of the simulated and measured student responses illustrates the potential for the integrated use of systemsdynamics and learning science to aid design of learning environments that foster student motivation, engagement, and learning.