Characteristics of effective learning



 In modern times, majority of people talk about teaching in an attempt to describe learning (Watkins, Eileen, Carnell, Lodge, Wagner and Whalley, 2002). Professor Robert Coe’s study (as cited in University of South wales, 2015) asserted that learning cannot be determined by merely observing a teacher. Teaching and learning are two sides of a coin. Watkins et al (2002), described learning as a constructive activity that influences a student to link prior knowledge with present information in order to influence the future. Alistair Smith (2015) in his video affirmed that learning is a purposeful and lively engagement.

When having my reflection at the end of every lesson, I would often ask myself a question- “did learning take place”? I use seven key features to assess if learning has taken place- purposeful, lively, enjoyable, collaborative, individualized, practicable and applicable. I answer my reflective question in the affirmative if I saw that the children were actively involved during the lesson. I often use a multi -sensory approach in my phonics lesson in order to interest students with diverse learning styles in my class. I use vivid stories, pictures, action, sand writing, songs and movement to teach letters and sounds and I can tell that the children enjoy this method.
I have a sense of fulfillment when I see that my students are able to practice and apply their phonic knowledge when they read signs and words pasted outside the classroom.

References
  Alistair Smith. (2012, June 24). Why we need to change how we learn [Video file]. Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2t0D2J67xCk

       University of South Wales (2015), Characteristics of Effective Learning

    Watkins, C., Carnell, E., Lodge, C., Wagner, P.and Walley, C. (2002). Effective Learning. National School of Improvement Network Journal. Retrieved from http://www.core.ac.uk



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