"Predict-observe-explain strategy supported by the use of multimedia"

Students work collaboratively in pairs as they engage in a variety of predict-observe-explain (POE) computer-based tasks facilitated by an interactive multimedia program. Before viewing each video-based demonstration, the program prompts the learners to discuss and record their prediction for an outcome and an associated reason. After committing themselves to a prediction and reason, they then use the video tools to closely observe the outcome of the demonstration before finally explaining any differences between their prediction and observation. All responses are recorded on the hard drive of the computer the students use.

Task contexts cover a variety of relevant, usually out-of-classroom scenarios designed to draw upon students’ real world experiences in a given domain. Multiple-choice options for the prediction stage of each task are informed by the alternative conceptions literature.

The teacher facilitates the students’ engagement with the tasks and ideally, conducts a whole-class discussion of task outcomes in a subsequent session.

Comment from the Project Team...

This learning design can be implemented with relative ease. Matthew Kearney assisted the project team to develop a web-based Predict-Observe-Explain eShell that you can use to develop and implement this kind of learning design. Access the Predict-Observe-Explain eShell, via the "Cross-links" section.

This exemplar has been selected for inclusion for the following reasons:

• It represents the implementation of a predict-observe-explain strategy facilitated by interactive multimedia.
• The learning design can be reused in a variety of disciplines and learning contexts.

The learning design has been redeveloped in the form of a web-based Predict-Observe-Explain template to facilitate its reuse in other contexts.