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