Solution...a student-centered approach
Altering current best teaching practices will create a more effective system by shifting from a teacher-centered classroom to a student-centered classroom. Through this student-centered classroom, teachers would be facilitating learning opportunities and would become a guide and/or mentor. This role transformation allows the student to question instead of wait for an answer. Several key components are able to create a successful and an effective student-centered environment: technology, classroom design, curriculum and lesson design.
Technology
Technology can act as a vehicle for educators to drive this shift in pedagogy by giving students access to new tools and resources.
Classroom Design
Creating an environment that promotes collaboration and creative problem solving will help students focus on the task at hand.
Curriculum & Lesson Design
Curriculum that is based on student interest can lead to more effective learning. Allowing students to have more input leads to greater interest.
How can technology help in the classroom?
Technology including iPads and computers can help in creating a student-centered classroom through a collaborative environment, which focuses on finding solutions instead of memorizing facts. From our survey, 45.2% of people strongly agree that technology is needed for 21st Century learners and is an essential tool in the classroom.
Google Classroom is one of many tools which can help drive the transition to a student-centered classroom. Through the use of a virtual classroom space teachers can implement student-centered lessons which are open-ended and creative. Traditionally, students are asked to come to a specific conclusion or construct a piece of work which is identical to what the teacher modeled. Instead in creative-based lessons, students have the freedom to create a product that is original.
Click here for an example lesson.
Does classroom design effect learning?
Our survey indicates that 29% of educators agree that environment affects learning. In a student-centered classroom, the focus is on the student through collaboration and the act of exploration. A push towards communication leads to groups and flexible seating so that students can easily maneuver around the classroom. "The layout of a classroom, along with the furniture and technology it contains, has proven to impact student engagement and performance"
(http://cdn.nmc.org/media/2016-nmc-cosn-horizon-report-k12-EN.pdf) An overall connection to the environment and learning experience will occur between students.
How does curriculum affect students?
According to our survey, 48.4% of people believe that their students can achieve full independence within the classroom. Students are able to achieve this independence in the classroom through a student-centered learning environment.
Student-centered learning relies heavily on a curriculum that empowers the student to explore their interests. By introducing open-ended projects that allow students to creatively explore a solution, learning becomes authentic. This kind of learning can be done through Design Thinking and Project Based Learning. Providing a curriculum which introduces real-world situations will solidify knowledge faster. Once students have to rely on themselves and others, they will become more self-sufficient and independent in the classroom setting.
