Dimensions of Learning

​by Nathalie Luna

​Dimensions Of Learning

​Dimension I

Attitudes and perceptions affect students’ abilities to learn. Similarly, if students have negative attitudes about classroom tasks, they will probably put little effort into those tasks. A key element of effective instruction, then, is helping students to establish positive attitudes and perceptions about the classroom and about learning.​

​Dimension II

​When students are learning new information, they must be guided in relating the new knowledge to what they already know, organizing that information, and then making it part of their long-term memory. When students are acquiring new skills and processes, they must learn a model (or set of steps), then shape the skill or process to make it efficient and effective for them, and, finally, internalize or practice the skill or process so they can perform it easily.

​Dimension III

​. Learners develop in-depth understanding through the process of extending and refining their knowledge (e.g., by making new distinctions, clearing up misconceptions, and reaching conclusions). They rigorously analyze what they have learned by applying reasoning processes that will help them.

​Dimension IV

The most effective learning occurs when we use knowledge to perform meaningful tasks.

​Making sure that students have the opportunity to use knowledge meaningfully is one of the most important parts of planning a unit of instruction.

​Dimension V

The most effective learners have developed powerful habits of mind that enable them to think critically, think creatively, and regulate their behavior.​

Multiple Choice

The dimension that helps the students to put into practice what they've learned?

• Dimension III: Extend and Refine Knowledge

• Dimension IV: Use Knowledge Meaningfully

• Dimension II: Acquire and Integrate Knowledge 

• Dimension I: Attitudes and Perceptions

• Dimension V: Habits of Mind