Independent Learning

1. Independent Learning

2. 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

3. Rationale for Change • Need to prepare students for an ever changing economic and professional landscape • Life long learning • University • Changing technologies • Developing skills

4. Gains for the learner • Ability to respond to change • Transferrable skills • Allows for different learning styles • Self-direction is motivating • The enjoyment/enthusiasm of independent learning will carry over to the subject itself. • Communicate effectively using different media • Organise themselves • Problem solve • Relate to others

5. 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.

6. 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

7. What does independent learning look like? • Students finding and collecting information • Carrying out investigations or projects • Students learning at their own pace • using ICT • Completing homework, extension work or coursework assignments • Giving students choices so they reflect on their own interests and preferences • Students working in groups so they can learn from each other. • Students contributing to lesson planning • Students involved in self and peer editing before work is handed in

8. Resources – wide choice promotes interest and enthusiasm from students. Resources could include… • Text books • Images • Files • Web links • Video • Discussion forums • Surveys • Interactive animations And models

9. Resources – wide choice promotes interest and enthusiasm from students. Resources could include… • Mind maps • Audio files • Exemplar student work • Collaborative documents • Tests • Student could make resources for other students - revision

10. 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: • The links to the question – statement sentence • The examples • The evidence 4 mins

11. An example strategy… In pairs • What do you think are the strengths of this piece of work? • How do you think this work could be improved? • 2 mins

12. Essay writing - SEX • Every paragraph should include: • A statement sentence where you answer the question directly • Example – a specific example to support your statement • Explanation – information to explain your point fully

13. 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