Learning with the complex competence task

Exciting ways of learning with the competence task

Task-based learning has long been established in the field of foreign language learning – in a sense. However, it still competes with textbook-based instruction and, above all, with the curricular specifications and frameworks: comparative tests, official exam tasks, and the limitations of skills-orientation. The competence task shows a way in which competence-oriented learning can be combined with exciting tasks based on life-world experiences and challenges. The task model is designed to make it possible to plan and pre-structure such exciting, open teaching units so that learners are not left alone with complex demands and challenges.

Download the task model here. 

Watch the video

I have created a video for all those who would like to learn more about the model of the complex competence task. In the video I introduce the task philosophy and explicate the various components of the model. 

Planning teaching units with the task model

In the English project of the national research cluster LemaS | Leistung macht Schule | Excellence in school education teacher teams in 18 schools create task-based teaching units using the model of the complex competence task. Even at this early stage, it can be said that they are doing this very successfully, with great ideas, enthusiasm and dedication. The students’ task products, if already presented at this early stage, confirm this yield of the planning work and the students’ independent work on the task.

Here is an interview (in German) on working with the complex task in the research project LemaS/Excellence in School Education.

After what we have been able to see so far in schools in which teachers in the Englsh department have planned their teaching units with the model, I would say: Just try it out and find out for yourself!