What if we let students pick their own ways to learn English instead?
In traditional classroom settings, English teachers often select and apply a teaching strategy to facilitate language acquisition. Some teachers may come with more than one strategy, and these methods are meant to fit different learning needs, but with many students in one class, it can be hard to make sure everyone benefits equally. This limitation raises an important question: What if we reversed the approach and allowed students to choose their own learning strategies?
The Traditional Approach
In a class where teachers teach English as a foreign language, they usually pick one or two strategies to help students understand the language. For example, the Grammar-Translation Method focuses on grammar exercises and is often considered effective for understanding complex grammatical structures. Other teachers might prefer a fun approach, using games or game-like activities to make learning engaging and interactive, such as language-based board games and word puzzles. However, these teaching strategies might not fit everyone’s learning style. As a result, some students might struggle to connect with the material or reach their learning goals. For instance, some extroverted students prefer interaction as the main way to learn, including role-plays, discussions, and real-life simulations to practise language in context, while shy students might find this approach challenging.
A Student-Centric Model
Imagine an online learning environment where students have the autonomy to select the strategies that appeal most with their personal learning preferences. This approach recognizes that each learner is unique and may benefit from different methods of instruction. By giving students the power to choose how they learn, we can create a more personalised and effective educational experience.
Benefits of a Student-Driven Approach
- Enhanced Engagement
When students have a say in how they learn, they are more likely to be motivated and invested in the process. This increased engagement can lead to better retention and application of language skills. - Tailored Learning
Students can select strategies that align with their strengths and preferences, whether it’s interactive exercises, multimedia resources, or traditional grammar drills. This customization helps address individual learning needs more effectively. - Autonomy and Responsibility
Allowing students to choose their learning strategies fosters a sense of ownership over their education. It encourages them to take responsibility for their learning journey and develop self-directed learning skills. - Feedback and Adaptation
As students experiment with different strategies, they can provide feedback on what works best for them. This ongoing feedback loop enables continuous improvement and adaptation of the learning experience.
Implementing the Model
Using a learning management system like Moodle can implement this student-driven approach in an online learning environment, educators can provide a variety of resources and strategies for students to choose from. For example,
Conclusion
Reimagining language learning by allowing students to choose their own strategies represents a shift towards a more personalised and effective educational experience. By empowering learners to take control of their learning journey, we can enhance engagement, tailor instruction to individual needs, and foster a greater sense of responsibility. As we move forward, it is crucial to explore and implement innovative approaches that place students at the centre of their educational experience
| Disclaimer: This article was written with the assistance of AI technology. The author utilized her own experience and knowledge to construct the content, while the AI provided support in ensuring clear writing and proper grammar. All ideas presented in this article are the sole property of the author. |
Author :
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SAGU Online Learning Coordinator
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