Demonstrating a process step-by-step can be a real game-changer in education. When students see a skill or concept in action, they gain a clearer understanding of how it works while remaining more engaged in their learning. A wealth of research highlights that this technique, known as modelling, is one of the most effective tools a teacher can use.
In this blog, we’ll explore:
- A quick recap on what modelling is
- What research says about the power of modelling
- Practical strategies to make it work in your classroom
What is modelling?
Modelling is the fourth of Rosenshine’s 10 principles for effective teaching. Rosenshine emphasised that teachers should not only explain new concepts but also show students exactly how to approach them. This means verbalising your thought process, making sure students understand both what you’re doing and why you’re doing it.
While modelling physical actions is relatively straightforward, verbalising how decisions are made can be more complex. However, when teachers share their thought process, students gain insight into expert thinking and develop stronger problem-solving skills.
Modelling is also a key part of adaptive teaching, an approach that ensures all students engage with challenging content while receiving the right level of support. By carefully planning your explanations and being responsive to students’ needs during lessons, you can create a more inclusive and effective learning environment.
What does the research say?
Research supports the use of modelling in education, so let’s take a look at what studies have found.
1. Modelling fosters critical thinking
Research shows that modelling plays a crucial role in developing critical thinking skills. When teachers demonstrate their thought processes, they provide ‘mental models’ that guide students in their learning. This way, students don’t simply memorise information, but instead actively engage with the material, reflect on it, and develop a deeper understanding. This subsequently leads to students performing better academically by making complex concepts more accessible.
2. Modelling boosts focus and engagement
Keeping students on task is a challenge, but modelling can help. One study found that students who were exposed to modelling were nearly three times more likely to stay engaged with a task compared to those who weren’t.
When students can clearly see how to approach a problem, they’re less likely to get frustrated. Instead of giving up when they encounter difficulties, they view mistakes as opportunities to maximise their learning, reducing their fear of failure.
3. Modelling reduces confusion and cognitive load
Cognitive science research suggests that clear, visual explanations improve learning by reducing cognitive load. When teachers use explicit examples and step-by-step demonstrations, students experience less confusion, making it easier to grasp new concepts or skills.
How to model new concepts and information effectively
While modelling is a powerful tool, it’s only effective if done well. So, how can you ensure your modelling techniques actually help students learn?
1. Organise and adjust your thinking
Before you start, make sure your thoughts are organised. If there’s rambling or jumping between ideas, it’s easy for students to become confused and lose track of what you’re trying to explain. Research suggests that effective modelling is clear, consistent, and concise. Stick to simple steps and avoid abstract reasoning or overly complex explanations; make things easy for students to follow.
A key part of adaptive teaching is to understand that not all students will grasp concepts at the same pace, so it’s important to be flexible in your approach to modelling. If the content turns out to be particularly challenging, increase the amount of support you provide. This means breaking down the task into smaller steps, using more guided practice, or checking for understanding more frequently. If misconceptions arise during the lesson, don’t hesitate to model the process multiple times to reinforce understanding.
On the other hand, if students demonstrate a strong understanding, consider adding more challenge. This could involve asking them to explain the reasoning behind each step, complete a task with less guidance, or apply their learning in a slightly different context.
2. Use worked examples and completion tasks
A powerful way to model is through worked examples. These are step-by-step demonstrations that show exactly how to solve a problem, with each step clearly explained. Once your students are comfortable with that, try completion tasks. These are examples with some gaps left for students to fill in themselves. To learn more about these two approaches, check out our blog on worked examples and completion tasks in the classroom.
This approach provides scaffolding that gradually fades, allowing students to practice their newly learned skills on their own. The idea is that, by slowly reducing support, students can gain more independence and better retain what they’ve learnt in the long term.
3. Get students involved
Don’t just talk at your students. Engage them. Asking effective questions throughout modelling helps ensure they’re following along, whilst also serving as a clear check for understanding. For instance, use probing questions like, “Why do we need to do this step?” may help them to learn and understand the process.
Final thoughts
Research consistently highlights the power of modelling in learning. When students see a process in action, they are more likely to develop a deeper understanding of the material. Which means it’s key for teachers to use modelling effectively to help make learning more engaging. If we can do so, we can create an environment where students feel empowered to take on bigger challenges and achieve success.
