4MAT : applying a learning style system to create interesting and innovative presentations
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Date
2000
Authors
Craven, Sandra E
University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2000
Abstract
Unlike a large percentage of the population, I have always found it very comfortable and
natural to be in front of an audience. Therefore, I am constantly surprised at the negative
and often fearful reactions of many when they are required so to do. Effective oral
communication and teamwork skills are essential and invaluable tools in both the
education system and the workplace. This is evidenced by the fact that Department of
Learning has mandated Speaking and Representation as part of Alberta's Language Arts
Curriculum. Furthermore, the Conference Board of Canada's Employability Skills Profile
lists teamwork as one of the three critical skills required for success in the Canadian
workplace. (Appendix 1)1 firmly believe that the 4MAT System provides a vehicle by
which these skills can be acquired, therefore it has been incorporated into my Language
Arts/Social Studies Program both at the planning stage and at the student level.
Implementation of Dr. Bernice McCarthy's 4MAT System at the student level,
specifically as it relates to making oral presentations, is the focus of this project. Because
students at the Junior High level are extremely self-conscious, therefore reluctant to be
singled out, students are introduced to oral presentations using the 4MAT System in a
less threatening situation, that of cooperative learning. The purpose of this project is three
fold: 1) to improve student communication and presentation skills using the 4MAT
System.
2) to teach students to honor their own learning styles while becoming more adept
in the other three quadrants of the 4MAT System.
3) to improve teamwork skills in a cooperative learning environment.
Description
xviii, 108 leaves ; 29 cm. --
Keywords
4MAT system , Instructional systems , Oral communication -- Study and teaching (Secondary)