From shed to head

A conceptual toolkit for social sciences

Abstract

The conceptual toolkit is a heuristic device for teaching and learning key concepts and is grounded in Cognitive Load Theory (CLT). It focuses attention by stripping away extraneous material, encouraging a focus on the germane. This project brings the toolkit into virtual existence as a digitally animated interactive resource in the form of an extended metaphor. Key disciplinary concepts are represented as a 'tools' that can gain traction on data like a spanner on a bolt. Tools are acquired by learners and organized in a 'tool shed' ready for use. The tool shed allows students to organize concepts into memorable clusters; tools are organized on shelves akin to cognitive schemata in long-term memory. Subsequently learners may select tools appropriate to a specific 'job' and, extending the metaphor, these are placed into a traditional steel cantilever toolbox ready for use. Exercises then scaffold application and analysis, facilitating higher level thinking; tools are 'picked up' by working memory for application to tasks such as case study or comparison. Reflection on the suitability of tools selected allows for deeper synthesis and understanding.