Predict Observe Explain

Author: jlj366

Created: 2011-11-29 04:07pm

Edited: 2011-11-29 10:04pm

Keywords: science, predictions, collaboration

Description:

The Predict Observe Explain strategy is used to help students understand phenomenon of process (particularly scientific or mathematical). The key feature of this design is the opportunity for students to predict the outcome of the phenomena/process. It is assumed that this will help students more closely observe and be able to articulate the explanation for their prediction and/or the actual outcome of the phenomenon/process. In this design students watch the initial part of a stimulus scenario of a phenomena/process then work collaboratively in pairs to discuss and record their prediction for the outcome. Students then watch the remainder of the scenario to observe the actual outcome before finally explaining the differences between their prediction and the outcome.

The predict-observe-explain learning design is based on the notion that students learn and solve problems by working through potential contradictory ideas or concepts (eg., their prediction and the actual observed phenomenon/process) and through discussion with their peers.

Intended Learning Outcomes:

to articulate, justify and critically reflect on preconceptions
to become aware of alternative conceptions
to use discipline appropriate language
to develop process skills (predict, observe, explain)

	Resources		Tasks		Supports
	Stimulus scenario	→	Predict: Student pairs predict outcome for a scenario ↓	←	Small group discussion
←	Prediction	←	↓
	Entire Scenario	→	Observe: Student pairs observe the outcome of the scenario ↓	←	Small group discussion
←	Observation Description	←	↓
	Prediction; Observation Description	→	Explain: groups discuss predictions and observations and explain the outcome of the scenario ↓	←	Small group discussion
←	Explanation	←	↓
→		→	Debrief: Discuss explanations and resolve differences as a whole class	←	Teacher led discussion

Additional information

This design can be run in a face-to-face or online environment. Multiple choice prediction options could be used (e.g. for novice users or in situations when difficult notation or formulae need to be entered). Additional follow up tasks such as multiple choice tests, concept maps or reflective journals could be used to assess the learning outcomes.

Prior to implementation, it should be ensured that the online environment (if one is being used) is available and set up in a way so that it is ready for students to commence the project. For example:
• The scenarios (stimulus and entire version) are available and ready for viewing
• A system is in place for students to record their prediction, observation and explanation. The system should ensure that students have to record their prediction prior to watching the entire scenario.Regardless of environment, the pairs and small groups should be established prior to implementation, or a system in place to allow students to form pairs and teams.

Original designers –
Kearney, M. (2002). Description of Predict-observe-explain strategy supported by the use of multimedia. Retrieved November 5, 2009, from Learning Designs Web site: http://www.learningdesigns.uow.edu.au/exemplars/info/LD44/index.html