As educators we need to challenge our belief about learning and development....Knowing is separate from doing. CTE classes teach both! In Cosmetology, I teach theory as well as practical skills, or as Chantilly High Schools motto is "Learning by doing". My learners need to know disorders of the Hair, skin and nails, so that they can recognize disorders and diseases that they may come across as a professional to keep the public safe from harmful diseases or disorders. I also teach them how to cut, color, relax, perm, manicures, style and design updos for their guests.
They learn to use tools as practitioners and enter the community of Cosmetology, so they see and understand the relevancy of my class. Because Cosmetology and CTE design opportunities for the learners to develop knowledge by involving them in "doing", we are preparing our learners the use of understanding the process to shape their understanding. They not only study about Cosmetology, they "do" Cosmetology.
In the first week we talked abut the fours Cs and I believe that this is what CTE classes do for our learners. We teach them what it is like to be a Chef, Carpenter, Mechanic, Engineer, Vet assistant, or Cosmetologist. We plan Authentic activities that allows the learners to problem solve in related practices. We give them "usable knowledge", not just facts or vocabulary. We push learners beyond just learning the subject, but to perform, create and apply their knowledge to the workforce. The learners have opportunities to share what they learn by, grooming dogs, cooking meals for staff and their families, build a house, fix cars or creating a style for a guest. CTE learners have the opportunity to compare the meanings that they have built about knowledge with those of other careers and classes.
I found a nice video of the 4 Cs that I'd like to share: https://youtu.be/BXT2STtm_54
I like your quote that students do not only study cosmetology, they do cosmetology. It is not only important, like you said, to learn about problems with hair, nails, and skin but how to fix them. Students will actually be able to use their knowledge and skills from the classroom when they become a practitioner.
ReplyDeleteI also appreciate the focus on using and doing, instead of allowing knowledge to lie "inert." The Youtube video was helpful for identifying what the 4 C's look like in the classroom. LCPS has 5 C's, the additional one being "Contributions." I would think that "doing" and "Contributions" are in the same category: we are looking at what students can actually construct with their knowledge. Your students contribute towards their guests and public safety, my students contribute understanding of past tied to present--all through their doing.
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