Breaking the monotony of the classroom has been one of the top challenges for almost every educator. Learning pedagogies of the 21st century vary drastically from those that were followed in the 20th century. Pedagogies describe the process of learning and refer to the process through which the theoretical and practical aspects of teaching are carried out.
The learning process could be further categorized into two – teacher-centric and student-centric. Teacher-centric learning involves direct instruction of subject matter, i.e. a fixed set of knowledge being transferred from the teacher to the students. Over a period of time, teacher-centric learning could acquire a rigid course.
On the other hand, Student-centric learning involves active student participation. Indeed, the educators still impart instruction, however, they acquire more of a mentorship role. Similarly, student-centric tests assess the skills more often and are analytical in nature.
Let us look at 5 unique learning strategies for modern pedagogy which are in alignment with student-centric learning.
- Crossover Learning
The concept of crossover learning can simply be described as a process that bridges the divide between formal and informal learning systems. The crossover learning concept encourages the students to acquire knowledge and information from informal learning settings such as museums, and other after school clubs.
This learning format is not a replacement for classroom education but rather works as a supplementary source of knowledge. For instance, a teacher can put forward a question in the class and then encourage the students to explore probable answers on a museum visit or field trip. On gaining practical knowledge, students can then present their observations in the classroom.
2. Computational Thinking
Computational thinking refers to an approach to thinking and problem-solving. This approach breaks down larger problems into smaller bits. It then recognises how similar problems have been solved in the past, sets aside unnecessary details and develops steps to achieve the end solution.
Largely used by programmers, such computational thinking skills can also be deployed in everyday life. For instance, you could use it while writing a recipe to share a favourite dish with friends, plan holidays, etc. The ultimate aim is to teach students how to structure their problems better before solving them.
3. Adaptive Learning
Every student is different and has diverse learning requirements. However, most educational institutions provide common learning materials, following the one-size-fits-all approach. This leaves the students with no option but to adjust their learning in accordance with the study material.
The adaptive learning concept, which is also followed by Toppr Learning App, aims to get rid of the one-size-fits-all approach to learning. It uses data from the learner’s previous experiences to create a personalized study approach. Data such as time spent on reading and self-assessment scores can form a basis to individually guide learners through the course materials. It also provides various tools to monitor the learner’s progress, further enhancing their academic growth.
4. Learning Through Science
Students are likely to develop scientific inquiry skills when they are introduced to the use of scientific tools and practices. Teachers and students alike now have remote access to specialized equipment, such as remote laboratory experiments or telescopes. These avenues of learning enhance subject curiosity among students.
Moreover, remote lab systems can reduce the barriers to student participation through the application of a user-friendly web interface. For instance, students can use a high-quality telescope to make night sky observations while at home and introduce practicality in their learning.
5. Argumentative Learning
Students can enhance their learning potential in science and mathematics by arguing in ways that are similar to professional scientists and mathematicians. Argumentation familiarises the students with contrasting thoughts, which in turn enhances their learning. It also encourages the students to refine their ideas with their peers, in order for them to learn ways in which scientists think and work.
Teachers can promote argumentative learning by encouraging the students to ask open-ended questions in the classroom. Students should be receptive to the feedback that they receive from their teachers and observe the ways in which intellectuals conduct themselves.
The introduction of innovative learning methods is the need of the hour where students gasp for creative learning ideas. Better educational strategies are considered more thought-provoking, creative and enhance the student’s engagement in the classroom. These learning strategies, hence, go a long way in benefitting the students in achieving their academic goals.