COLUMNS OF INSTRUCTION

The Paideia classroom features three complementary instructional techniques or columns: didactic instruction of factual information; intellectual coaching of skills; and seminar discussion of ideas, concepts, and values. The Three Columns of Instruction represent the seventh, eighth, and ninth Paideia Principles. Part of the mission of the National Paideia Center is to thoroughly define the Three Columns so that they can be effectively utilized in various learning settings.

The Acquisition
of Organized Knowledge

Didactic Instruction is the delivery of factual information. Lecture, demonstration, videos, and reading are common forms of Didactic Instruction. The goal of Didactic Instruction is for students to acquire the basic "must know information" about a subject. Because Didactic Instruction typically puts students in a passive role, the National Paideia Center advocates limiting Didactic Instruction to 10-15% of instructional time. Assessment and evaluation of Didactic Instruction and factual learning is effectively conducted through traditional short answer and multiple choice tests.

10% – 15%

Development
of Intellectual Skills

Intellectual Coaching is guidance through modeling and questioning. Intellectual Coaching may begin with a teacher modeling writing a sentence, reading a paragraph, solving a problem, or hypothesizing about a reaction. Intellectual Coaching often happens by questioning as well as both positive or corrective feedback. The goal of Intellectual Coaching is for students to acquire expertise in skills of learning, such as reading, writing, calculating, and observing. Developing skills in a relevant context occurs in a Paideia Classroom through teacher’s development and use of units called Coached Projects. Intellectual Coaching ideally occurs 70% of instructional time. Assessment and evaluation of Intellectual Coaching is conducted through performance tasks, project work often with the use of checklists and rubrics.

60% – 70%

Increased Understanding
of Ideas and Values

Paideia Seminar is a collaborative, intellectual dialogue facilitated by open-ended questions about a text. The goal of Paideia Seminar is for students to expand their understanding of ideas, concepts, and values about the curriculum. The Paideia Seminar nurtures both intellectual and social skills. Paideia Seminars occur approximately 15-20% of instructional time. Assessment and evaluation of Paideia Seminars occurs through pre and post seminar tools and processes including self identified goals, discussion, and writing.

15% – 20%