Student Centered Learning Strategies

Comparisons

Identifying similarities and differences between concepts

Classifications

Grouping ideas or concepts together based on similar characteristics or ideas

Metaphors

A figure of speech use to make an implicit comparison or connection between two unlike things (ex. Jackson was a rock to Betty)

Analogies

A comparison between two similar things that can be used to explain something or make it easier to understand (ex. A Galaxy is Stars as a Beach is to Sand)

Inquiry

Open-ended and creative way to seek knowledge

Constructivists Approach

Constructing meaning out of information through active engagement and understanding

Guided Inquiry

Teacher provides the data and then questions the students so they may come to a conclusion

Unguided Inquiry

Commonly individual inquiry; Students take control of data gathering and questioning

Projects

An activity that involves investigation about the facts of a certain issue and reporting the facts

Reports

Similar to projects, but mostly centered around gathering data and facts

Problems

An issue that must be resolve through inquiry, investigation, solution, etc.

Whole Class Discussions

Involves all students in the class engaging in conversation with one another while being guided by the teacher

Small Group Discussion

Similar to whole class discussions, but focus on allowing students to discuss ideas/concepts in a smaller more focused group.

Informative Talk

Low Student Engagement

Ideal for knowledge acquisition

Providing simple, basic information

Including (activities, discussion, engagement, etc.) increases effectiveness

Informal Groups

Temporary groups for quick conversation (ex. turn and talks)

Formal Groups

Carefully designed/organized groups of students to allow maximum efficiency and learning

Base Groups

Long-term grouping of students that can be used throughout a whole term to further synthesize learning among students

Role Playing

A student-directed activity in which students act out or dramatize a particular situation, circumstance, or idea

Simulations

Exercises that model real-life environments and situations

Games

Designed to involved students in competition as a primary means to achieve a learning goal

Learning Centers or Stations

A designated place within the room where a student goes to pursue either required or optional activities on a given topic

Independent Work or Learning Contracts

Refers to an assignment or activity that students complete without the direct involvement of the teacher or other students

Panel

Fairly informal setting with a group of 4-6 people discuss a topic with a moderator

Symposium

More formal version of a panel in which each member gives a form of presentation related to the topic of discussion

Task Force

Again, similar to a panel, but requires thorough investigation of a topic with a formal presentation given to