Independent Learning
Independent Learning is …
a process, a method and a philosophy of education whereby a learner acquires knowledge by his or her own efforts and develops the ability for enquiry and critical evaluation
Rationale for Change
Need to prepare students for an ever changing economic and professional landscape
Life long learningUniversityChanging technologiesDeveloping skills
Gains for the learnerAbility to respond to changeTransferrable skillsAllows for different learning stylesSelf-direction is motivatingThe enjoyment/enthusiasm of independent
learning will carry over to the subject itself.Communicate effectively using different
mediaOrganise themselvesProblem solveRelate to others
Why encourage independent learning?
Students start to make meaningful connections with the world outside the classroom.
Instead of relying on the teacher to do the thinking for them they take responsibility for thinking and learning themselves – instead of just waiting to be given the “right answer” to learn.
Sixth Form Centre to provide:•Silent and quiet study areas•Bookable student meeting rooms•Adaptable space to conduct lectures•Office spaces•Mentoring space•Reception area•Registration point
What does independent learning look like?Students finding and collecting informationCarrying out investigations or projectsStudents learning at their own pace using ICTCompleting homework, extension work or
coursework assignmentsGiving students choices so they reflect on their
own interests and preferencesStudents working in groups so they can learn
from each other.Students contributing to lesson planningStudents involved in self and peer editing before
work is handed in
Resources – wide choice promotes interest and enthusiasm from students. Resources could include…
Text booksImagesFilesWeb linksVideoDiscussion forumsSurveysInteractive animations And models
Resources – wide choice promotes interest and enthusiasm from students. Resources could include…
Mind mapsAudio filesExemplar student workCollaborative documentsTestsStudent could make resources for other
students - revision
An example strategy…Parents as students – Peer assessment – what
are the features of a grade A piece of work?
Individually highlight/annotate the following in your essay:
a)The links to the question – statement sentenceb)The examplesc)The evidence
4 mins
An example strategy…In pairsWhat do you think are the strengths of this piece of work?How do you think this work could be improved?
2 mins
Essay writing - SEXEvery paragraph should include:1)A statement sentence where you answer
the question directly2)Example – a specific example to support
your statement3)Explanation – information to explain
your point fully
Mobile answers – How far was clemenceau satisfied with the Treaty of Versailles? Explain your answer
On your different piece of card write your
- Statement sentences – answers the question directly
- Example- Explanation- Make your mobile answer