Question

In learning centred approach to learning, students are expected to take the overall responsibility for learning and assessment. In which way this helps students?

I. Students become self-directed lifelong learners

II. Students become proficient with all information literacy skills

III. Students can and do assess their own learning

1. II and III
2. I and II
3. I and III 
4. I, II and III

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 4 : I, II and III

According to Weimer (2002), there are five practices that need to change to achieve learning centred teaching:

• The functions of content: In addition to building a knowledge base, the content facilitates students to practice using inquiry or ways of thinking in the discipline, learn to solve real problems, understand the function of the content, why it is learned, build content/discipline-specific learning methodologies, build an appreciation for the value of content, help students develop a way to learn through the content and make meaning out of the content.
• The role of the teacher: The teacher creates an environment that- fosters students learning, accommodates different learning styles, motivates students to accept responsibility for learning, explicitly aligns objectives, teaching methods and assessment consistently, utilizes multiple teaching techniques appropriate for student learning goals, designs activities in which students interact with the material, the teacher and each other, inspires and encourages student ownership of learning.
• The responsibility for learning: Although the responsibility of learning is shared between the teacher and the students, it is expected that the students take the overall responsibility for learning and assessment. As a consequence, students develop learning skills for further learning, become self-directed lifelong learners, can and do assess their own learning, become proficient at self-assessment, become proficient with all information literacy skills.
• The processes and purposes of evaluation: Assessment in learning-centred education is more holistic and integrated with learning. It comprises of- integrated assessment, formative assessment with constructive feedback, peer and self-assessment, multiple opportunities to learn and demonstrate mastery, students encouraged to justify their answers, students and teachers agree on feedback timeframes, authentic assessment is used throughout.
• The balance of power: It is the students, more than the teacher, who has the control over their own learning. Therefore, the teacher needs to make deliberate efforts to empower the students to assume control over their learning. Students are encouraged to explore additional content, to express alternative perspectives whenever appropriate, use of mastery or contract grading, assignments are open-ended, students take advantage of opportunities to learn.