According to a recent research study by a Schneider et al.(2013) students who were initially engaged in open-ended exploration before reading new information outperformed students who used traditional textbook materials before solving a problem. The researchers found that the students who were first presented with an abstract problem to solve and then engaged in open exploration before reading became more productive. It was assumed they used their prior knowledge and intuitions. Consequently, they were more likely to fully grasp the newer concepts.
The implication for the COR Literacy Framework (or any other instructional program) is that a series of lessons (around a theme or topic) should first start with an open ended question (or a problem to solve). Students problem solving and suggesting possible solutions will help elicit personalised learning goals which will test the sufficiency of their prior knowledge. This process will enable students to determine what else they might need to adequately solve the problem.
