Student Centered Learning: Why, How, & What

Summary

This video script introduces student-centered learning, an educational approach that empowers students to take charge of their learning journey. It emphasizes creating independent and responsible learners through active engagement, higher-order thinking, and problem-solving. The classroom environment is dynamic, with students working collaboratively, exploring interests, and using technology to solve real-world problems. Teachers facilitate learning, assess students' self-evaluations, and encourage choice in assignments. The video concludes with tips for implementing student-centered practices and invites viewers to subscribe and access additional resources.

Takeaways

• 🎯 The primary goal of student-centered learning is to foster independent and responsible learners capable of adapting to the 21st-century workplace.
• 📚 Student-centered classrooms are characterized by students being actively engaged and on task, with teachers facilitating rather than directing the learning process.
• 🧠 Students in such classrooms are encouraged to utilize higher-order thinking skills through inquiry-based learning and problem-solving activities.
• 🔍 Students are given the freedom to work at their own pace, driving the lesson according to their interests and abilities.
• 🤝 Cooperative learning is a common feature, with students working together in groups and building upon each other's knowledge.
• 🏫 The classroom environment should reflect a partnership in learning between teachers and students, with mutual goals and collaboration.
• 🖼️ Evidence of student work, such as projects, posters, and writing samples, should be visibly displayed throughout the classroom.
• 💻 Technology is integrated into the classroom to assist students in problem-solving, mirroring real-world applications.
• 🗣️ Debate and discussion are encouraged as students are given a voice and feel empowered to express their ideas.
• 📝 Teachers should provide students with choices in their assignments, promoting autonomy and personal investment in learning.
• 📈 Teachers are advised to teach 'big ideas' and allow students to discover the details themselves, incorporating student reflections into grading and assessments.
• 📊 Performance-based and authentic assessments are emphasized as they align with real-world workplace expectations.

Q & A

What is the primary goal of student-centered learning?

The primary goal of student-centered learning is to create independent and responsible learners for the future.

What are some benefits of using a student-centered classroom model?

Benefits include students learning to express themselves, being engaged in their work, utilizing higher-order thinking skills, working at their own pace, and developing transferable skills for the 21st-century workplace.

How does student engagement differ in a student-centered classroom compared to a traditional classroom?

In a student-centered classroom, students are more engaged because they are involved in inquiry-based learning and problem-solving activities, and they drive the lesson rather than the teacher.

What role does the teacher play in a student-centered classroom?

The teacher facilitates the learning process, allowing students to explore their interests and work together in a cooperative learning environment, forming a partnership in learning with the students.

How is technology used in a student-centered classroom?

Technology is used to help students solve problems, similar to real-world situations, and is integrated into the learning process to enhance problem-solving and collaboration.

What does a school administrator expect to see when they observe a student-centered classroom?

They should see students working on assignments, exploring interests, collaborating in groups, and using technology to aid in their learning, with the teacher facilitating rather than dominating the lesson.

How can students' voices be empowered in a student-centered classroom?

Students are given a choice in their assignments, and they are encouraged to debate ideas with one another, which gives them a voice and makes them feel empowered.

What are some tips for implementing student-centered learning in the classroom?

Tips include teaching big ideas, allowing students to discover details, giving students a chance to evaluate their own learning, using performance-based and authentic assessments, and teachers moving around the room for formative assessments.

Why are performance-based and authentic assessments important in a student-centered classroom?

These types of assessments are important because they reflect what students will encounter in real-world workplace environments, promoting practical application of knowledge and skills.

How can teachers formatively assess students in a student-centered classroom?

Teachers can formatively assess students by moving around the room, asking questions, and engaging with students in a non-graded manner to understand their progress and comprehension.

What resources are available for educators interested in student-centered learning?

Resources can be downloaded from the description link below the video, and educators can also follow the channel on Twitter and Pinterest for more insights and materials.