Module 3 Activity 2: Student-Centered Learning Strategies

by: Richard Aird, What are Student-Centered Classrooms? Student-centered classrooms and student-centered learning are words that we have all heard before in education. But what was once a luxury or Innovative approach seems to be more of a necessity in the current day of teaching. The traditional classroom where students sit quietly and attentively in their seats while the teacher lectures for hours for them to absorb is over. This is especially true for Middle School and High School classes where lecturing can be a constant battle. So what exactly is a student-centered learning classroom? A student-centered classroom or student-centered learning environment is one where the main focus of instruction is shifted from the teacher to the student. The goal with this setup is to have students develop to be autonomous and independent. It is the teachers’ job to ensure that the responsibility of learning is in the hands of the students. Many people who support student-centered learning would argue that it's one of the best and most effective ways to help students develop the skills they need for life. The students in this way can become lifelong learners and independent problem solvers. In the more traditional teacher centered learning environment, the teacher is the center of the learning experience and takes the center role of teaching. The students assume a more passive role. In the student-centered learning environment, the interest of the students takes center stage and the teacher gives students choice, responsibilities, and stakes in what they are learning. The students find ways to learn and the teacher finds ways to help the students learn based on what the students value. In the student-centered classroom, students take a more active role and teachers take a more passive role. What's amazing about this environment is that it can apply to kindergarten, preschool, middle school, high school, or even University. Students will become independent learners who will take charge of their own education. Students will become curious, eager to learn, and willing to do whatever it takes to be successful. Developing a student-centered classroom isn't always easy. Especially if the teacher's experience is a more traditional experience for when the teacher went to school. Putting a student-centered learning environment into practice is a different story. In this Wakelet, we will explore different strategies, principles, and offer some guaranteed tips that can make the student-centered learning environment a reality and success in the classroom (Loveless, 2019).