The 4MAT Framework helps teachers examine the scope and breadth of teaching and learning as it moves through the Learning Cycle. And the role of the teacher and the activities change as people move through the 4MAT Learning Process.

When teachers design teaching based on 4MAT,  they move students from Experiencing to Reflecting to Thinking to Acting. 

• In Quadrant 1, the goal is to engage students in discussion of an experience that relates—The Discussion Method.

• In Quadrant 2, the goal is to clarify and or deliver key information or ideas—the Information Method.

• In Quadrant 3, the goal is to move to experimentation and problem solving as students work to master the material: The Coaching Method.

• In Quadrant 4, the goal is to have students adapt learning in new and original ways. The Self Discovery Method

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Imagine a teacher who can do all four!

So, the role of the teacher and the activities that are used in each phase of learning change as people move through this cycle.

For example, look at this research from a High School in Mexico. While the learning preferences are evently distriibuted among the four major learning styles, the Teaching Preferences were focused most on Quadrant 3, or on teaching skills. This was an eye-opener for the teaching staff.

About Learning offers a simple self-assessment tool if you want to explore your learning preference and how it compares to your teaching preference. This is most useful when it is used in conjunction with the Learning Type Measure, an instrument for assessing how people learn.

Call About Learning toll free at (800) 822-4MAT to learn more!