Our pedagogy is based on the idea that the human being is a creature that is actively learning through processing experiences and impressions. The idea that adults prefer active learning rather than passive methods gained a lot of attention in the 1930′s resulting in a theory on Action Learning. Based on the model of Action Learning (ARL) the Swedish MiL Institute developed the concept of Action Reflection Learning in the 1970’s. When TicTac was formed ten years ago we immediately felt connected to the philosophy of Action Reflection Learning, and has since worked to incorporate its ideas and methods in our courses and educations.
ARL – an Adventure!
ARL is based on the idea that adults learn automatically through experiences and by overcoming needs in their daily life. We take in new knowledge by adding to what we already know and by drawing conclusions based on our previous experiences. When we have acquired new skills we are keen to test these skills as soon as possible. At TicTac we like to think of it in terms of learning being an adventure. The user gets to detect complicated relationships and test his or her knowledge in an interactive environment. At the early stages of learning such immediate response is incredibly valuable and leads to lasting results.
How do you do ARL?
ARL is based on three parts:
- Action
The key to making ARL function is that the education is always in tune with the users’ needs and connects to the complications of daily life. We use sound, image, text and video to present interesting scenarios and questions to the user. Then we build interactivity through allowing the user to test his or hers ideas and solutions.
- Reflection
When you test your own thoughts about a specific topic you will naturally start to reflect on consequences, potentials and your own role. This state of reflection is very important and must be given room in the education.
- Learning
These steps creates an active learning process where the user obtains deep connections to the subject and remembers the newly acquired skills for a longer time. Both practical tests and research show that this is more effective than passive teaching methods such as lectures, reading or using only video.
In-depth levels
We also divide the course into different levels to allow the user greater freedom to choose between in-depth studies or basic studies. The levels we are working with are called:
- A-level:
At this level we introduce the most important basic information. It is presented and illustrated in an appealing way focusing at the experience of the user.
- B-level:
At this level the user pursues in-depth studies and is introduced to facts presented in text and image with interactive exercises that strengthens the understanding for the subject and creates more profound insights.
- C-level:
At this level the user is provided further information in the form of PDF-documents, internal and external links etc. This level also functions as a reference list.