Assume a Spherical Cow: an Examination of Four Implicit Learning and Teaching Assumptions

eaching and learning are complementary processes that are most effective when teachers and students employ compatible methods and when their goals are aligned. Four “spherical cows,” metaphors for implicit assumptions made about key teaching and learning concepts, are explored. Explicit conceptualizations, drawn from selected research and theory and based on the understanding that knowledge is internally constructed and individually organized, are presented for each assumption. The conceptualizations support compatible teaching and learning methods and promote an effective partnership.