The Integrated Learning Model

Overview

The “Integrated Learning Model” is a unique teaching methodology designed to achieve better outcomes and promote student engagement, accountability and independence. In the “Integrated Learning Model”, student needs drive instructional decisions. It fosters successful return to work, transition to college and continuous learning by integrating three focused learning environments: Critical Learning, Facilitated Learning, and Independent Learning.   Critical Learning provides individualized attention to address students’ needs. In Facilitated Learning, the teacher acts as a guide or facilitator while students practice applying skills in groups. Independent Learning cultivates confidence and provides students with opportunities to demonstrate mastery in a structured independent environment that closely mirrors college and the workplace. The Integrated Learning Model cultivates a “ready, willing and able” to work attitude. Finally, the Integrated Learning Model will provide superior value to our customers.

Critical Learning

Based on the individual student's needs, the focus in this environment is on skill acquisition. Initial or interim assessments identify specific areas for development. In short sessions, instruction is tailored to bridge skill gaps and strengthen concept formation in a teacher-directed, small group environment. This ensures knowledge is acquired in manageable chunks so that it can be practiced, applied and mastered later in independent settings in meaningful ways.

Facilitated Learning

Applied learning is the focus of this environment. Recently acquired skills are reinforced in a supportive setting that fosters reflection, interaction and dialogue. Teachers engage students through modeling and problem-posing so that students can explore different problem solving strategies and think critically about what they are learning and how they learn best. Facilitated Learning promotes active engagement, where meaning is constructed by students, rather than delivered by teachers. This promotes confidence, independence and retention of learning.

Independent Learning

The ability to work efficiently and independently is a necessary survival skill for college and the workplace. Independent Learning provides opportunities for students to demonstrate skill mastery at their functional levels in language, mathematics, or computers. While the length of time spent in Independent Learning will vary for each student, the goal is to scaffold learning in Critical and Facilitated environments so that gradually, each student feels more confident working independently for longer periods of time. This helps students develop the "Ready, Willing and Able" attitude necessary for return to work and transition to college. Continuous Learning skills will help our students succeed and grow in their new careers.

Essential Skills

A critical element woven into the Integrated Learning Model is a comprehensive understanding of Essential Skills. The trajectory of each student's program is aimed at promoting Continuous Learning. To maintain and grow in a new career or to be successful in college, it is essential to know how learning occurs, to understand one's own learning, and to understand how to find information or resources for learning.

Essential Skills practice provides opportunities to apply skills acquired through upgrading in relevant contexts. At our centres, students learn to navigate the HRSDC and the Ontario Skills Passport websites to create and print occupational profiles and work plans for their NOC codes. Teachers use workplace materials and Essential Skills assessment tools to align our students' programs with specific NOC profiles.

Next Step: Return to Work or Transition to College

In the Integrated Learning Model, a successful return to work or transition to college is always in the foreground. The independence fostered by the Integrated Learning Model focuses on mastering the skills and knowledge students need to be successful in the next stage of their careers.