Of the three fundamental principles of learning, the point about using a "metacognitive" approach stood out to me the most. Metacognition can be extremely beneficial for learning, especially if students are aware of what this concept entails. Therefore, this is a reminder that as a future educator, it is important that I reinforce this idea to students. Furthermore, the quote "new understandings are constructed on a foundation of existing understandings and experiences." These preconceptions, that can act as an aid, or sometimes a hindrance, to learning are important to investigate. Thus, in the future, I will be sure to discover, and dig deep to determine my students' views, opinions and understandings of a certain topic before I begin to teach it. This will result in more effective and accurate learning. Linking back to the third principle, the it is also important for students to define goals, and monitor progress on their own. The quote ,"even the best instructional efforts can be successful only if the student can make use of the opportunity to learn" emphasizes the importance of this. Thus, all efforts would be seen as a future educator to implement techniques, strategies and exercises that encourage students to think about their own information processing.
With regards to learning environments, I would definitely focus on the learner-centered lens, due to the importance of preconceptions and the influence of these. The knowledge centered lens is also important and students should always be aware of the purpose and outline behind all lessons. Of all the lenses, the community-centered lens is one that is extremely important, as it encourages a safe and comfortable classroom that could result in optimal learning. As a future educator, this lens stands out to me the most, as I always want my students to feel comfortable enough to ask questions, and answer questions even if they are not positive that they are correct. I believe that this factor, or lack-thereof can be seen in many classrooms. For example, my focus student struggled significantly with self-confidence and participation. Therefore, if he would feel safer and more comfortable, these two factors may improve. As I continue my internship, I would try my best to encourage all lenses and the important principles of learning.
Donovan, S. (2005). How students learn history, mathematics, and science in the classroom. Washington, D.C.: National Academies Press.
With regards to learning environments, I would definitely focus on the learner-centered lens, due to the importance of preconceptions and the influence of these. The knowledge centered lens is also important and students should always be aware of the purpose and outline behind all lessons. Of all the lenses, the community-centered lens is one that is extremely important, as it encourages a safe and comfortable classroom that could result in optimal learning. As a future educator, this lens stands out to me the most, as I always want my students to feel comfortable enough to ask questions, and answer questions even if they are not positive that they are correct. I believe that this factor, or lack-thereof can be seen in many classrooms. For example, my focus student struggled significantly with self-confidence and participation. Therefore, if he would feel safer and more comfortable, these two factors may improve. As I continue my internship, I would try my best to encourage all lenses and the important principles of learning.
Donovan, S. (2005). How students learn history, mathematics, and science in the classroom. Washington, D.C.: National Academies Press.