Dimensions of Learning Framework

Description
The Dimension of Learning Teacher's Manual (Marzano & Pickering, 1997) describes a alternative framework that is commonly used in teaching.

"Dimensions of Learning is a comprehensive model that uses what researchers and theorists know about learning to define the learning process. Its premise is that five types of thinking-what we call the five dimensions of learning - are essential to successful learning. The Dimensions framework will help you to

• maintain a focus on learning:
• study the learning process; and
  
• plan curriculum, instruction, an d assessment that takes into account the five critical aspects of learning." (Marzano & Pickering, 1997, p. 4)

The five Dimensions are

1. Attitudes and Perceptions (Marzano & Pickering, 1997, pp. 13-42)
2. Acquire and Integrate Knowledge (Marzano & Pickering, 1997, pp. 43-112)
3. Extend and Refine Knowledge (Marzano & Pickering, 1997, pp. 113-188)
4. Use Knowledge Meaningfully (Marzano & Pickering, 1997, pp. 189-259)
5. Habits of Mind (Marzano & Pickering, 1997, pp. 261-302)

Each of the Dimensions has in depth descriptions of different techniques to use to hone students skills in the specified area.

Plus

The in depth nature of Dimensions of Learning (DOL) means that all facets of teaching is covered in the manual with hints to help you implement it in the classroom.

Minus
Due to the in depth nature of DOL it is a time consuming practice (especially at our level of learning in University where correct referencing and correct use of all the aspects is needed) and care needs to be taken in creating E-Learning experiences with DOL as there are limited selections available that are directly related to technology and ICT.

Interesting
DOL is a valuable tool in the classroom, but with its limited direct reference to technology and ICT makes it more time consuming and a cumbersome task to complete the E-Learning assignments based on this framework.

Personal reflection
After using DOL in previous units I have found it to be very helpful and based on commonsense practice that uninformed people may already be doing without realising it, but through study teachers can learn how to use it more effectively and efficiently to gain a bigger benefit to students.

Marzano, R. J., & Pickering, D. J. (1997). Dimensions of Learning Teacher's Manual (2nd ed.). Aurora: ASCD.