Resource
TLC Teaching Model
What is it?
Effective instruction has several things in common:
1. Clear, measurable learning objectives that contribute to a common learning goal
2. Clearly presented content
3. Opportunities to practice the knowledge and skills from that content
4. Assessments to see if the objectives have been met
5. Feedback incorporated all along the process
Furthermore, all of these components must align together.
This model is based on over a hundred years of learning theory including the concept of backward design. Backward design means that learning objectives are determined first, and the course design is created to meet these objectives.
Examples and Implementation
| Common sources of misalignment | Example |
| Assessments that do not align with the learning objectives | Using a multiple choice test to assess if students can perform a technical skill |
| Not providing or soliciting feedback throughout instruction | Students get feedback after an exam, but not before |
|
Content does not align with the assessment |
Material taught in class or including in a study guide is dissimilar to what is included in a quiz/exam |
Implementing the TLC Model and its underlying framework, backward design, offers numerous benefits, including fostering student-centered instruction, increasing intentionality in your teaching, and promoting transparency. Tables and worksheets are available online to help you design instruction using backward design.