Document: Lecture Notes

Course Code and Title: SED211 Facilitating Learner-Centered Teaching

Professor: Dr. Elena D. Mulle

Introduction to Learner-Centered Teaching

I. Objectives

II. Lesson Proper

Teaching, and Learning and Education Defined

Teaching is a deliberate and systematic process of imparting knowledge, skills, values, or

information to others. It involves the use of various strategies, methods, and techniques by an
educator to facilitate the learning process. Teaching aims to guide and support learners in
acquiring new knowledge, developing critical thinking skills, and achieving specific learning
outcomes. Effective teaching often involves careful planning, communication, and the creation of
a conducive learning environment.

Learning is the process through which individuals acquire knowledge, skills, attitudes, or
values. It involves a change in behavior, cognition, or capability because of experiences,
interactions, or exposure to information. Learning can occur through formal education, informal
experiences, observation, and reflection. It is an active and ongoing process that varies from
person to person. Effective learning is often characterized by understanding, retention, and the
ability to apply acquired knowledge in different contexts.

Education is a complex and multifaceted endeavor that plays a crucial role in shaping
individuals and societies.

The History of Education

The history of education is rich and diverse, shaped by cultural, social, economic, and
political factors. Different civilizations and societies have had distinct approaches to education
throughout the centuries.

1. Ancient Civilizations:
Mesopotamia and Egypt (3000 BCE): Formal education began in these early civilizations,
with a focus on practical skills and religious instruction. Education was often reserved for the
elite.
Ancient Greece (500 BCE): Greek philosophers like Plato and Aristotle emphasized the
importance of education for the development of individuals and the well-being of the state. The
concept of a well-rounded education for citizens emerged.

2. Roman Empire (27 BCE - 476 CE):

 Education in Rome was initially private and aimed at preparing citizens for public life.
Later, with the influence of Greek philosophy, a more liberal education system developed,
including the study of literature, philosophy, and rhetoric.

3. Middle Ages (500-1500 CE):

Education was largely centered around religious institutions. Monasteries and cathedral
schools were primary centers of learning, and education was mainly for the clergy.
The Renaissance (14th-17th centuries) brought a revival of interest in classical education,
with an increased focus on humanism and the liberal arts.

4. The Enlightenment and Industrial Revolution (17th-18th centuries):

Enlightenment thinkers such as John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau advocated for
education to foster reason, critical thinking, and individual rights.
The emergence of public education systems in some European countries began to broaden
access to education.
The Industrial Revolution led to the need for a more standardized and practical education
to meet the demands of an industrialized society.
Compulsory education laws were introduced in many countries, emphasizing the
importance of education for citizenship and workforce preparation.

6. Late 19th and early 20th Century:

The progressive education movement, led by educators like John Dewey, emphasized
learning through experience and student-centered approaches.
The expansion of education systems worldwide and the recognition of the importance of
education for economic development.

7. 21st Century:
Technology has significantly influenced education, with the rise of online learning, digital
resources, and the integration of technology in classrooms.
Globalization has led to an increased emphasis on preparing students for a more
interconnected and diverse world.

Educational Philosophies

Educational philosophies serve as the foundational frameworks that guide the principles,
practices, and goals of the educational system. These philosophies provide a lens through which
educators, policymakers, and society at large view the purpose and process of education.

1. Perennialism:
Key Ideas: Perennialism emphasizes the enduring ideas and knowledge that have
withstood the test of time. It draws heavily from classical education, focusing on the great works
of literature, history, philosophy, and mathematics.
Purpose of Education: To cultivate a deep understanding of the timeless truths and ideas
that form the basis of human civilization.

2. Essentialism:
Key Ideas: Essentialism centers on a core set of knowledge and skills that all students
should acquire. It is a back-to-basics approach, often emphasizing subjects like reading, writing,
mathematics, and science.
Purpose of Education: To provide students with a common foundation of essential
knowledge and skills necessary for active participation in society.
3. Progressivism:
Key Ideas: Progressivism focuses on student-centered learning, experiential education, and
the development of critical thinking skills. It encourages hands-on learning, problem-solving, and
real-world applications.
Purpose of Education: To foster the development of independent and creative thinkers who
can adapt to a changing world.

4. Existentialism:
Key Ideas: Existentialism places a strong emphasis on individuality, personal responsibility,
and freedom. It rejects predetermined curricula and encourages students to explore their
interests and values.
Purpose of Education: To help students find meaning and purpose in their lives by
exploring their individuality and confronting the uncertainties of existence.

5. Constructivism:
Key Ideas: Constructivism views learning as an active process where individuals construct
knowledge based on their experiences. It emphasizes hands-on activities, group collaboration,
and self-directed learning.
Purpose of Education: To facilitate the construction of knowledge through meaningful and
interactive learning experiences.

6. Behaviorism:
Key Ideas: Behaviorism focuses on observable behaviors and the use of reinforcement and
punishment to shape behavior. It often involves structured learning environments and clear
objectives.
Purpose of Education: To teach specific skills and behaviors through systematic and
controlled methods.

7. Holistic Education:
Key Ideas: Holistic education seeks to address the intellectual, emotional, social, and
spiritual aspects of individuals. It values the development of the whole person rather than
focusing solely on academic achievements.
Purpose of Education: To nurture well-rounded individuals who are not only academically
competent but also emotionally intelligent and socially responsible.

Theories of Learning

1. Behaviorism:
Key Figure: B.F. Skinner, John B. Watson, Ivan Pavlov.
Focus: Behaviorism views learning as a change in observable behavior. It emphasizes the
role of the environment in shaping behavior through stimuli and responses. Reinforcement and
punishment are key concepts in behaviorist theories.

2. Cognitivism:
Key Figures: Jean Piaget, Lev Vygotsky, Albert Bandura.
Focus: Cognitivism explores the mental processes involved in learning, such as memory,
problem-solving, and decision-making. It emphasizes the role of internal cognitive structures and
the learner's active processing of information.

3. Constructivism:
 Key Figures: Jean Piaget, Lev Vygotsky.
Focus: Constructivism posits that learners actively construct knowledge by building upon
their prior experiences and understanding. It emphasizes the role of social interaction,
collaboration, and hands-on experiences in the learning process.

4. Social Learning Theory:

Key Figure: Albert Bandura.
Focus: Social Learning Theory suggests that individuals learn by observing and imitating
the behaviors of others. It highlights the importance of modeling, reinforcement, and the social
context in shaping learning outcomes.

5. Humanistic Theories:
Key Figures: Abraham Maslow, Carl Rogers.
Focus: Humanistic theories, such as Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and Rogers' Person-
Centered Approach, emphasize the role of personal growth, self-actualization, and individual
needs in the learning process. These theories stress the importance of a positive and supportive
learning environment.

6. Multiple Intelligences:
Key Figure: Howard Gardner.
Focus: Howard Gardner proposed the theory of Multiple Intelligences, suggesting that
intelligence is not a single, fixed trait but a combination of different abilities, including linguistic,
logical-mathematical, spatial, musical, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and
naturalistic intelligence.

8. Experiential Learning:
Key Figure: David Kolb.
Focus: Experiential Learning Theory posits that learning is a process involving concrete
experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation. It
emphasizes the importance of learning through hands-on experiences and reflection.

The Role of the Teacher in the Learning Process

1. Facilitator of Learning:
Teachers create a learning environment that is conducive to exploration, critical thinking,
and active engagement. They facilitate the learning process by providing resources, activities,
and guidance.

2. Knowledge Provider:
Teachers impart subject matter knowledge and skills to students. They present information
in a clear and organized manner, ensuring that students grasp fundamental concepts and build a
strong foundation in the subject.

3. Motivator and Encourager:

Teachers inspire and motivate students to learn. They create a positive and supportive
atmosphere that encourages curiosity, enthusiasm, and a love for learning. Positive
reinforcement and encouragement are essential in fostering a growth mindset.

4. Assessment and Feedback:

 Teachers assess students' progress through various forms of evaluation, such as tests,
assignments, and projects. Constructive feedback helps students understand their strengths and
areas for improvement, guiding them toward further development.

5. Adaptability and Differentiation:

Effective teachers recognize and respond to the diverse needs and learning styles of their
students. They employ different teaching strategies and approaches to accommodate varying
levels of understanding and abilities within the classroom.

6. Role Model:
Teachers serve as role models for students, influencing not only academic development
but also social and ethical growth. By demonstrating positive values, attitudes, and behaviors,
teachers contribute to the holistic development of their students.

7. Classroom Management:
Teachers establish and maintain a positive and organized learning environment. Effective
classroom management ensures that students can focus on their studies and feel secure and
respected.

8. Counselor and Mentor:

Teachers often serve as mentors, guiding students through challenges and providing
advice on academic and personal matters. They may also offer career guidance and support
students in setting and achieving their goals.

9. Cultural Mediator:
Teachers help students navigate and understand diverse perspectives, fostering cultural
awareness and respect for differences. They create an inclusive classroom environment that
celebrates diversity.

10. Communicators:
Teachers communicate with students, parents, and colleagues to foster a collaborative
learning community. Effective communication ensures that everyone involved is informed and
engaged in the educational process.

Learner-Centered Teaching

Learner-centered teaching, also known as student-centered teaching, is an instructional

approach that places the learner at the center of the educational process. In contrast to
traditional teacher-centered approaches, where the teacher is the primary source of information
and control, learner-centered teaching shifts the focus to the needs, interests, and active
participation of the students.

The goal is to create a more engaging and effective learning experience by tailoring
instruction to the individual needs and learning styles of students.

Key characteristics of learner-centered teaching include:

1. Active Learning: Encouraging students to actively participate in the learning process

through activities, discussions, and hands-on experiences.
 2. Student Autonomy: Promoting self-directed learning and giving students more
control over their learning goals, pace, and assessment methods.

3. Inclusive Learning Environments: Creating an inclusive and supportive classroom

environment that values diverse perspectives and backgrounds.

4. Flexible Assessment: Using a variety of assessment methods that go beyond

traditional exams, such as projects, presentations, and portfolios, to better assess students'
understanding and skills.

5. Collaborative Learning: Fostering collaboration among students, encouraging them

to work together on projects, solve problems collectively, and learn from each other.

6. Real-World Relevance: Connecting classroom content to real-world applications,

helping students see the practical relevance of what they are learning.

7. Feedback and Reflection: Providing timely and constructive feedback to guide

students' learning and encouraging reflection on their progress and understanding.

8. Adaptability: Being flexible and responsive to students' needs, adjusting

instructional methods based on feedback and ongoing assessment.

Learner-centered teaching acknowledges the individuality of each student and aims to

create an environment where they can develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities,
and a deeper understanding of the subject matter. This approach recognizes that students are
active participants in their learning and seeks to empower them to take responsibility for their
educational journey.

LCT vs the Traditional Teaching Method

The learner-centered approach and the traditional teaching method represent two distinct
approaches to education. Here's a comparison of the key characteristics of each:

LCT Traditional Teaching Method

Focus The primary focus is on the The teacher is typically at the center,
student. It emphasizes the needs, and the focus is on delivering content to
interests, and active involvement the students.
of individual learners.
Role of the The teacher serves as a facilitator, The teacher is often the primary source
Teacher guiding and supporting students of information, directing the learning
as they take an active role in their process.
learning.
Learning Style Recognizes and accommodates Often follows a standardized approach,
diverse learning styles, allowing with one-size-fits-all teaching methods.
for personalized and differentiated
instruction.
Engagement Emphasizes active learning, Relies more on lectures, rote
collaborative activities, and hands- memorization, and passive absorption
on experiences to engage of information.
students.
Assessment Assessment methods may include Assessment often involves standardized
projects, presentations, and tests and exams, measuring recall and
 portfolios, focusing on regurgitation of information.
understanding and application
rather than just memorization.
Autonomy Promotes student autonomy, Students typically follow a structured
encouraging self-directed learning curriculum set by the teacher or
and decision-making. educational institution.
Real-World Aims to connect classroom May sometimes struggle to
Connection learning to real-world applications, demonstrate the real-world relevance of
making the content more relevant the material.
to students.
Content Varied methods of content Primarily relies on lectures and
Delivery delivery, including interactive textbooks for content delivery.
discussions, group work, and
multimedia.

III. Sources (in APA 6th Edition)