The Oxford English Dictionary states that the definition of learning is ‘the acquisition of knowledge or skills through study, experience, or being taught’, although this denotation is technically correct it does not specify the details of an ideal learning environment. For example, the above definition fails to explain how this attainment of knowledge is to be projected onto the pupils and what exactly is the most effective manner to promote such learning. Many educational theories revolve around this discussion as it is evident that there is no one clear method in which learning is efficaciously stimulated. Through a combination of observations and personal experience of being taught and teaching within a classroom setting, I personally
…show more content…
Although it is import to challenge the pupils’ limitations, it is also key to ensure that the learning does not intimidate the class. In order to effectively promote learning a teacher must recognise the strengths and weaknesses of the class in regards to their ability to process material. Whilst partaking in a school placement I was able to witness how teachers aided the learning of their pupils through individual targets. For instance, each student was given a current grade and a target grade to aim for. This proved to be extremely successful as the students became motivated to better themselves and reach or exceed the target grade received. However, once the grades are set it then become the teachers’ responsibility to make each pupil feel that their target is achievable and this can only occur through the continuous encouragement of commitment and good behaviour. For example, I was able to observe a teacher apply Robert E. Slavin’s theory on cooperative learning (1996, pp200-204) which involves ‘team rewards, individual accountability and equal opportunities for success’ (p201). Slavin’s theory was demonstrated through a ‘hotseating’ activity which placed the class in the role of police officers questioning a suspect (played by a …show more content…
The teacher must remain consistent in their administration of both punishment and praise towards their pupils. During my short placement at Great Barr School, the teachers that I observed were able to prosper in achieving an effective behavioural management system that aided the promotion of learning within each lesson. Good behaviour was measured through a merit system which could result in rewards and letters home to parents in order to praise the pupil. Every lesson began with an empty white board, the students who excelled were placed on the board and rewarded in front of the class as an example to others, therefore demonstrating that positive behaviour will always be recognized and encouraged. Negative behaviour, however, must be addressed also, for instance, when observing a year 8 Theatre class, a group of boys failed to perform in front of the other students without laughing despite the seriousness of the piece. The teacher then calmly told the boys to perform until the task was taken seriously and then asked the remainder of the class to address the problems caused by laughing during a performance. The teacher therefore highlights to the class the behaviour that will not be tolerated, which will consequently enhance the
Although it is import to challenge the pupils’ limitations, it is also key to ensure that the learning does not intimidate the class. In order to effectively promote learning a teacher must recognise the strengths and weaknesses of the class in regards to their ability to process material. Whilst partaking in a school placement I was able to witness how teachers aided the learning of their pupils through individual targets. For instance, each student was given a current grade and a target grade to aim for. This proved to be extremely successful as the students became motivated to better themselves and reach or exceed the target grade received. However, once the grades are set it then become the teachers’ responsibility to make each pupil feel that their target is achievable and this can only occur through the continuous encouragement of commitment and good behaviour. For example, I was able to observe a teacher apply Robert E. Slavin’s theory on cooperative learning (1996, pp200-204) which involves ‘team rewards, individual accountability and equal opportunities for success’ (p201). Slavin’s theory was demonstrated through a ‘hotseating’ activity which placed the class in the role of police officers questioning a suspect (played by a …show more content…
The teacher must remain consistent in their administration of both punishment and praise towards their pupils. During my short placement at Great Barr School, the teachers that I observed were able to prosper in achieving an effective behavioural management system that aided the promotion of learning within each lesson. Good behaviour was measured through a merit system which could result in rewards and letters home to parents in order to praise the pupil. Every lesson began with an empty white board, the students who excelled were placed on the board and rewarded in front of the class as an example to others, therefore demonstrating that positive behaviour will always be recognized and encouraged. Negative behaviour, however, must be addressed also, for instance, when observing a year 8 Theatre class, a group of boys failed to perform in front of the other students without laughing despite the seriousness of the piece. The teacher then calmly told the boys to perform until the task was taken seriously and then asked the remainder of the class to address the problems caused by laughing during a performance. The teacher therefore highlights to the class the behaviour that will not be tolerated, which will consequently enhance the