Authenticity is the real-world applications so often mentioned in best-practices such as problem-based or inquiry-based learning. When teachers plan for authentic audiences, students are engaged at high levels and performance tasks outcomes increase. In this course, participants will examine what constitutes authentic audiences, how to find audiences locally and online, and incorporate authentic audiences into existing lessons. When authentic audiences are used in the classroom, deadlines and consequences are real, too. For example, if students are pitching a new business idea to local business professionals, not being prepared is embarrassing, but real, unlike a lowered grade on a late assignment. The learning will feel important when they are helping to solve a food bank delivery problem or designing a tiny house for a local couple. Opportunities are all around us – learning to identify those opportunities, building relationships within our communities, and aligning the learning to standards, are the key components to success authentic audience implementation.
- Define authentic audience in a classroom setting
- Provide specific examples of classroom applications
- Identify three authentic audiences which can be used during the upcoming school year
- Apply authentic audience theory to your instructional practice
- Reflect on how authentic audience can impact student achievement, student engagement, and your professional practice
Work through the resources provided below. Already know the content? No problem! Skip to #5 and submit your evidence of learning from the provided Choice Board. Receive a Proficient or Accomplished rating (grading rubrics are provided for each module) from the instructor and you are awarded a badge and certificate of attendance. Graduate credit is available, as well!
1. Bell Ringer:
Let’s get started! Complete the pre-assessment to help provide context and focus to your learning experience.
2. Setting The Stage:
Watch Setting The Stage for Authentic Audiences. Would you perform your best in an empty theater?
3. Play List:
Explore the resources provided below.
4. Integration In Action:
As you examine the examples, ask yourself the following questions:
What best practice instructional strategies are being used?
What type of audience is included?
Is the audience authentic? What makes it so?
How might you incorporate these ideas into your lessons? Your classroom?
5. Choice Board:
Choose an assignment from the choice board to complete and submit as evidence that you have mastered the information and applications found in the course. Refer to the Choice Board Evaluation Rubric and the Guidelines for Submitting Your Assignment to ensure your evidence contains the necessary elements.
When you have completed your evidence of learning, finalize the purchase process at the bottom of this page.
Take a moment to reflect on the work that you’ve accomplished and where you will go from here.
- Reflect on how you will use authentic audiences in your classroom.
- Describe how authentic audience can increase student engagement.
- Exit Ticket – Show what you know!