Allosteric Learning Model in English Lesson: Teachers' Views, the Instructions of Curriculum and Course Book, A Sample of Daily Lesson Plan

Abstract

The changes which occur during the learning process have been explained by many teaching-learning models and theories. One of these models is allosteric learning model (ALM) which was developed by André Giordan in 1989. This model was derived from a biological metaphor related to proteins. The interaction between individual and environment in a learning situation is tried to be clarified by using a metaphor of allosteric regulation. This regulation explains how enzymes and proteins can change form and function according to the environmental factors, in the same way, the model explains how individuals can change their minds as a result of environmental conditions. Various studies have been conducted in science especially in biology about allosteric regulations; however, there are few studies available especially in Turkey in social and educational sciences and foreign language teaching related to ALM. Hence, the main purpose of this study is to determine the compatibility of English teachers' views and instructions of curriculum as well as 5 th grade English course book with the principles of ALM. Moreover, the study aims to present a sample of daily lesson plan for the use of ALM in English lessons. The teachers' views and the data from the curriculum show that most of the ALM principles are available in the curriculum, course books, and classroom activities. Only three of them are not integrated into the curriculum and 5 th grade English course book. This study also presents theoretical explanations of ALM and a sample of daily lesson plan prepared for the 5 th grade English lesson "Health" unit. Accordingly, in-class activities of sample were developed through the principles of ALM. The current study also provides a framework for an experimental study which is planned to be realized in another study in the future.