Student-Centered Instruction: Opening Up Learning for Our Students

Learning Doesn't Have One Way In and One Way Out

Learning is a More Like a Web

Students regularly face 'closed' learning experiences

Examples of 'Closed' Learning

• Text selection that is based on reading level
• Over scaffolding
• Grading the wrong things

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The Research

• Teacher clarity, d=0.75
• Formative evaluation, d=0.90
• Feedback, d=1.13
• Classroom discussion, d=0.82
• Self questioning, d=0.64
• Teaching problem solving, d=0.63
• (From J. Hattie, 2017)

Student-Centered Instruction in Action

Open or Closed?

• Write about a childhood memory.
• Use the graphic organizer to write about a time you went to an amusement park?
• Solve the problem using the most efficient strategy.
• Use the FOIL method to solve the problem.

If we are going to open up learning, then we need student-friendly learning targets!

Instructional Strategies

• Student-friendly learning targets
• Choice for students
• Authentic audience
• Continual, formative assessment
• Self assessment

In your role, how can you help students get into the learning pit?