MSC APPLIED ELEARNING

LEARNING THEORIES PAPER MARK SHEET [2013-14]

Assignment Title
Delivering Design Fundamentals: The use of relevant Learning Theories in the delivery of
an Interior Design Project at Third Level
Participants name
Tutors name
Tracey Dalton
Roisin Donnelly
Indicators Each criterion within the module must be passed.
Structure and Presentation
be clearly written, well-presented and organised, with close
attention to academic conventions concerning referencing, quotation,
bibliography, footnotes, etc.
logical structure, well laid out and in correct format for an
academic paper
Tracey has adopted a scholarly writing style which is appropriate for
postgraduate level. While the paper overall is well thought out and
structured, there are some issues with adhering to the conventions of
APA style in terms of presentation (consistency of in-text citations, all
quotations need page numbers). The use of meaningful headings is
useful to reflect what is contained in each section. For the most part,
the Reference list adheres to APA guidelines but some minor
inconsistencies present. Appendices are cross referenced.
Literature Review and Scholarship
demonstrates a verifiable and comprehensible awareness of the
relevant and pertinent learning theories literature
provide evidence of critical analysis and/or synthesis of
appropriate literature on learning theories
demonstrates and builds upon skilled and judicious selection of
relevant materials from appropriate sources, with evidence that key
sources have been both explored and acknowledged appropriately
This is a useful presentation and discussion of some of the principles
of behaviourism, cognitivism and social constructivism relevant for
Traceys teaching practice with interior design students. She has
provided helpful initial detail on her teaching context and this allows
the reader to see the significance of the principles she is highlighting
in her practice. There is use of a range of appropriate literature to
support the points being made, and very helpful that you have
included literature relating to your own discipline of interior design.

PASS

PASS

Development, Implementation
PASS
provides evidence that the author has understood the key issues
and arguments together with an ability to contextualise the work
within a local, national and global context
a pedagogically sound justification is made for the appropriate use
of the selected technologies to support student learning within a
particular learning orientation
One of the strengths of this work is that Tracey is trying to
contextualise theory and practice in her own experience of facilitating
the learning of the interior design students. Her inclusion of examples
of the subject are helpful throughout to illuminate the theoretical
principles being discussed. There is scope for further development of
these such as lateral thinking, creative problem solving and special
understanding. The critical reasoning aspect of the paper can go
further and there is room to give more detail on the examples of
activities that are linked to theory. The small piece on Kolbs learning
cycle is not a clear fit for the argument being made on formative
feedback.
Discussion
PASS
demonstrate evidence of clarity of meaning and purpose
demonstrate evidence of coherence of argument and of the ability
to develop a consistent line of argument or reasoning
be informed by a good level of critical thinking and analysis
the work is intelligently linked to the professional development
needs of the participant and the workplace context in which they are
based
contain evidence of a good level of personal/professional
reflection informed by research, literature or practice (where
appropriate)
Tracey engages in discussion on her learning about aspects of some
theories which benefits from her reading on the area and this ensures
that this can be a useful piece of work for her. There is a suitable
combination of personalisation and objectivity in the paper, as
required. Tracey has been open in exploring and discussing her
investigations in the area of behaviourism, cognitivism and social
constructivism and has explored some pertinent aspects of the
theories for her support of the design students. Room for some of the
points mentioned to be taken and deconstructed further in the light
of her own experience.
Overall decision/impression
Tracey has discussed where she now is with regards to positioning herself within the area
of three learning theories for her current and future professional practice. She
demonstrates a certain level of knowledge of learning theories and how to apply them to
her practice.

Feed forward (longitudinal development over the programme):

This paper is a good start to the programme Tracey and you have described how the
chosen three theories are present in the teaching of your discipline. The paper portrays
that you recognise the importance of being a flexible teacher, working with the students,
at their level. Well done!
Signature of Tutor and date:
Overall indicator
Roisin Donnelly 7/11/13
PASS
Signature of Second Marker and date:

Overall indicator