Dimension 4: Using knowledge meaningfully

Marzano & Pickering (2006) state the purpose of acquiring knowledge is to be able to use it meaningfully. As they explain, we may learn a great deal about genetics if we want to know what will happen as a result of generic engineering. When knowledge is used to deal with specific areas that we care about we become immersed in learning. When students perceive tasks as meaningful and relevant they are motivated to complete the task. This could result in a higher level of knowledge. Tasks that require students to use knowledge meaningfully are a powerful and potentially more accurate way of assessing learning (Marzano & Pickering, 2006).

'Using knowledge meaningfully requires students to engage in complex thinking and reasoning processes as they complete long term meaningful tasks (Marzano & Pickering, p 191, 2006).

(click the Graphic Organiser to view in a link)

Dimension 4: Complex Reasoning Processes:

Problem solving:

Problem solving is the process of overcoming constraints or limiting conditions that are in the way of pursuing goals; it is the process of overcoming limits or barriers that are in the way of reaching goals (Marzano & Pickering, p 205, 1997).