Cognitive Flexibility Theory Implications

1. The theory supports the use of interactive technology (multimedia, video, and hypertext), therefore, knowledge is interconnected.
2. Show multiple examples and case studies while teaching.
3. Instruction should be case-based where knowledge is constructed.
4. Avoid over simplification content but support the interconnectedness of ideas in advanced knowledge domains.
5. Use practical (real-world) context to allow transfer of basic concepts and theories to be applied in dynamic situations.

Kearsley (2007), Cooper (2005)

Application

Content areas such as science and history can benefit from this instructional model. Where students would be provided with problems that require them to look up information and ask questions. While the students find (construct) solutions the problem is presented in several ways by the teacher often in the following order:

1. Students are divided into small groups.
2. Each student group discusses the problem with the teacher.
3. The students brainstorm to generate prior knowledge as well as questions that need to be considered.
4. The teacher provides the conditions and circumstances of the problem, some of which the students have already encountered in previous cases.
5. Although the knowledge domain is familiar, the students must reapply it in each special case.
6. The students must learn to transfer their knowledge from case to case.

Boger-Mehall (2007)

Assessment methods

1. portfolios
2. projects
3. visual essays
   

Boger-Mehall (2007)