Page 322 - Learning to Learn

READING EXPERIENCE 11: METACOGNITION: THINKING ABOUT MY THINKING
322 L EARNING TO LEARN: BECOMING A SELF-GROWER
Elevating Knowledge from Level 1 to Level 3
(Excerpted from the Faculty Guidebook)
by Kip Nygren (Civil & Mechanical Engineering, United States Military Academy at West Point)
The process of elevating knowledge from Level 1 to Level 3 can be described in terms of moving from
Level 1, terminology and related information; to Level 2, comprehension and understanding; and then to
Level 3, transferring and applying knowledge in new contexts.
This paper offers:
1. A methodology for elevating knowledge that provides guidance for elevating learning to Level 3.
2. A special matrix of descriptions of how five types of knowledge vary as learners progress up the
levels.
3. Ten specific techniques for helping to improve learning performance.
Finally, the focus of inquiry for each level is provided from both faculty and student perspectives to guide
the formulation of critical thinking questions relevant for learning and assessment at each of the three
levels of knowledge construction.
Levels of Learner Knowledge
Level 1
Information
“Memorization”
You can talk about a concept, process, tool, or context in words and can provide definitions or
descriptions. You are best with questions about facts.
A learner at
this level can
answer:
“Where is…?”
“Can you list the three…?”
Level 2
Conceptual
Understanding
“Teaching”
You can construct an appropriate model in your mind pertaining to a particular item of
knowledge. You also can link items of knowledge to each other.
A learner at
this level can
answer:
“How would you compare or contrast…?”
“What is the main idea of…?”
Level 3
Application
“Transfer
Knowledge
to a New Situation”
You can apply and transfer a particular item of knowledge to different situations and contexts.
You can generalize the knowledge to determine ways to apply it, testing boundaries and
linkages to other information. You are able to teach this knowledge to others.
A learner at
this level can
answer:
“What would result if…?”
“How would you apply what you learned to develop…?”
Level 4
Working Expertise
“Problem Solvers”
You can solve complex problems by applying and generalizing multiple concepts, processes,
and tools to produce a quality problem solution. You are seen as an expert in your field.
A learner at
this level can
answer:
“Can you propose an alternative...?”
“Can you construct a model that would change…?
Level 5
Research
“Creative
Enterprise”
You have innovative expertise which can be used to develop new understanding. You often
make new linkages among concepts and problem solutions which have not been seen before.
A learner at
this level can
answer:
“Can you formulate a theory for…?”
“Can you think of an original way to…?”