Anchored Instruction.

Anchored instruction is a technology based problem solving teaching method. The method engages students in a problem solving process that is tied, or anchored, to a realistic technology-based video presentation. Technology is used to present the story or anchor because it is seen as a vehicle to engage students in the higher order thinking skills they will need to solve the problems. Anchored instruction falls within the social constructivist paradigm, and is closely associated with situated learning. Anchored instruction is more relevant for middle school students, since the problems are difficult but not as complex as true problem-based learning (PBL). An important example of anchored instruction is the Jasper Woodbury series, which was designed by the Cognition and Technology Group (CTGV) at Vanderbilt University in 1992. The Woodbury Series is no longer maintained, but there are still a few current educational videos adapted to anchored instruction.