Building on an earlier 2008 summary prepared for OECD by Marlene Scardamalia and Carl Bereiter,
this paper by Gesa S. E. van den Broek provides a more extensive discussion of approaches described as
“research based innovation.” Fostering Communities of Learning is a constructivist approach in which
teachers help students discover important curricular concepts. Learning by Design is an inquiry-based
science learning programme based on case-based reasoning models. Central Conceptual Structures (CCS)
theory describes developmental changes in children’s thinking and what is needed to progress through
stages in specific cognitive domains. Web-based Inquiry Science Environment (WISE) is an internet-based
adaptive learning environment building on the principles of knowledge integration. Cognitive Tutors and
ACT-R theory are intelligent adaptive software programmes that provide students with scaffolded
instruction and feedback. Direct Instruction aims to accelerate learning through clear scripted direct
instruction by the teacher and scaffolded practice aimed at student involvement and error reduction. Higher
Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) is for disadvantaged students especially to engage in Socratic dialogues
about ideas and strategies to solve computer game-based problems. Knowledge Building is a constructivist
teaching approach centred on building knowledge and creating knowledge communities.
