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PALS

MSc Teaching of Psychology

Glyndŵr University

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PALS

Problem-based learning (PBL) represents a

shift away from more traditional teaching

methods to a perspective that focuses on

students’ learning.

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(Boud & Feletti 1999).

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PALS

PALS are an adaptation of problem-based

learning that involves using ambiguously

worded vignettes to provide students with

the scope to apply their own knowledge to a

contextualised problem.

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(Norton 2004a).

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What is the pedagogical justification for the use of PALS?

  • Constructive alignment
  • Constructivist learning
  • Active learning
  • Metacognition

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How can PALS be used?

  • Application of theory

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  • Group work

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  • To improve exam performance

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  • Promote self-directed and independent learning

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MY PALS

  • Applying psychological theory to practice

  • OCR Health and Clinical Psychology

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  • Phobias

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  • A video

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Theoretical implications

  • Knowledge but also contextualised understanding of real life scenarios

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  • Students need to focus on tightly defined topics

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  • Use the assessment criteria to support the actual learning process

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Constructive alignment�

  • Teachers should re-conceptualize assessment criteria as ‘learning criteria’

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  • Students must be able to access the content of the PALS

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  • PALS allow students to peer teach and question each other in order to help construct their understanding

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Practical considerations

  • PALS give teachers a framework to teach an OFSTED outstanding lesson

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  • Prior knowledge, autonomy of learning activity, challenge, resilience, differentiation, AfL, use of technology, independent learning, progress, individual needs met

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PALS

  • All specifications?

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  • All topics?

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  • AS or A2?

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  • Group size?

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Student implications

  • Develops metacognition

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  • Secure framework for discussion

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  • Students actively engaged in their learning

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  • Creates intrinsic motivation and enjoyment in learning psychology at A-level.

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Conclusion

  • PALS is an appropriate A-level teaching strategy

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  • Benefits students but importantly for teachers,

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  • Ticks the OFSTED box too