Student learning outcomes
What is the outcome of student-centered learning?
One problem I have with LEO's is that it puts restraints on the educators as to which material they believe is the most important or crucial in learning.
Earl,
One reason this is true probably has to do with employing multiple senses into the learning plan. Retention and application is always better when students can apply their learning in tangible ways.
Barry Westling
Using hands on activity to clarify the objective helps to strengthen the outcome. Test results are higher and the student seem to have a better understanding of the subject.
Yvonne,
Our goal is to assure that all students meet or exceed the defined student learning outcomes.
Barry Westling
good post, It is very important for a instructor to see the outcome of the student knowledge..
Vickie,
Right, and that application is the true test that learning has occurred.
Barry Westling
Yes, making them feel that you steps in thier zone helps them to become interesting in the subject matter. I love to pull student out of their comfort zone into understanding, even if I have to get on their level, which is breaking the lesson down from listening,to seeing then doing it practical.
Vickie,
Great. You're right, one dimension that exists with student-centered activities is a special synergy between the instructor and the student.
Barry Westling
I agree with Barbara that the outcome of student-centered learning is that they are competent in the subject, and once they feel that connection with the instructor, and understand what is being presented they will give feedback to let the instructor know they understand.
Jay,
This is good reflection on both the importance of student centered learning, but provides a brief glimpse into what our accreditation agencies are focused on during self studies and site visits.
Barry Westling
Student centered learning, if approached correctly, is holistic. The students should be engaged in the learning process, challenged, and have their progress assessed throughout the program of course. However SLOs are not limited to CGPA. True student-centered learning should involve input from various stakeholders in the outcomes. These include but are not limited to admissions, academics, career services, advisory committees, employers, community partners, alumni, etc. Job related competencies and soft skills must be evaluated throughout as well to ensure students are prepared to attain career opportunities. Student-centered support (and accountability) and a holistic approach along the way will set a strong foundation for positive student learning outcomes.
Nancy,
I want measure learning. Integrating many different kinds of assessments to determine the degree of understanding a student has achieved seems like a very reasonable (and fair) approach.
Barry Westling
I use a variety of testing material types such as essay, matching, fill in the blank and a few multiple choice.
Stella,
In a word, I think of student-centered as relating to each student individually. That often requires I modify my planned curriculum, and I know some instructors would prefer not to do that. I would rationalize that if we are looking at outcomes, then methods become less important.
Barry Westling
The outcome of student centered learning is to be able meet the learning needs of the students. The instructor should be able to reach the students by using instructional methods that enhances the student's learning and improves the development of their skills.
Jodi,
I believe lessons that provide opportunity for practicing critical thinking and application to their career area does the most to get them ready for their work setting.
Barry Westling
The student will be able to take what they have learned and apply it to real life situations.
Brian,
In a simple way, individualized instruction and attention will yield better student performance.
Barry Westling
Student centered learning outcome is student centered education. Much of this will transform your teaching style to "guide on the side" instead of "Sage on the stage". However, as noted there are times when one will work better than the other depending of a variety of factors.
