3.2 Justify own selection of teaching and learning approaches, resources and assessment methods

This guide will help you answer 3.2 Justify own selection of teaching and learning approaches, resources and assessment methods.

When planning how to teach, it is important to consider what methods and materials will work best for the specific group of learners. Each decision in the teaching process should be carefully thought through based on the goals of the lesson or course, the nature of the subject matter, and the needs of the learners. In this guide, we’ll explore how to select teaching and learning approaches, resources, and assessment methods, and how each choice can support the learning experience.

Understanding Learner Needs

Understanding who your learners are is crucial. Different learners have different needs, abilities, and learning styles. For instance, some may thrive through visual aids, while others learn better through listening or doing.

Consider:

• Age and Maturity: Younger learners might benefit from more interactive and playful approaches, while adults often appreciate real-world applications.
• Learning Styles: Visual, auditory, and kinaesthetic learners each have distinct preferences. Mixing approaches can cater to all types.
• Prior Knowledge and Experience: Knowing what learners already know helps in building on existing knowledge or filling gaps.

By understanding these factors, a teacher can tailor their approach to better suit their learners.

Selection of Teaching Approaches

Teaching approaches are the strategies used to convey content to learners effectively. Selecting the right method supports engagement and understanding.

Examples include:

• Lecture-based Approach: Useful for introducing new concepts or when addressing a large group. Best when supplemented with visuals or handouts.
• Discussion-based Approach: Encourages critical thinking and allows learners to express and explore ideas in a group. Ideal for small to medium groups.
• Practical/Experiential Approach: Involves ‘learning by doing’ and is great for subjects requiring skill acquisition, like science practicals or art.
• Blended Learning: Combines face-to-face teaching with online elements. Offers flexibility and diversifies learning experiences.

Choosing a teaching approach depends largely on the course objectives and the group dynamics. It’s also important to consider logistical constraints like time, resources, and environment.

Resource Selection

Resources are tools that support learning. The right resources can make a topic more accessible and engaging.

Types of resources include:

• Textbooks and Printed Materials: Still crucial for structure and in-depth study. Can be supported by other materials for different learning styles.
• Digital Resources: Videos, online articles, educational apps, and interactive tools offer diverse ways to interact with content.
• Physical Models and Realia: Useful for subjects like biology, geography, or languages where tangible objects aid understanding.
• Classroom Technology: Smartboards, projectors, and tablets can enhance interactive learning.

The choice of resources should be aligned with the learning objectives and designed to cater to different learner preferences. Access to resources must also be considered.

Assessment Methods

Assessments determine if learning has occurred and objectives have been met. Different types of assessments serve different purposes.

Common assessments include:

• Formative Assessments: Quizzes, peer reviews, or in-class activities provide ongoing feedback. Helps track progress and guide future teaching.
• Summative Assessments: Exams or final projects that evaluate overall learning at the end of a unit or course.
• Diagnostic Assessments: Pre-tests to understand learners’ starting points.
• Portfolio Assessments: Collection of work providing a broad view of learner progress and achievements over time.

Assessment methods should reflect the teaching approaches and resources used. They need to be fair and inclusive, allowing all learners to demonstrate what they’ve learned.

Matching Approaches with Learner Needs and Outcomes

Selecting teaching, resources, and assessment methods is not about choosing in isolation but ensuring these elements work together.

Steps to align these elements:

1. Identify Learning Objectives: What should learners know or be able to do by the end?
2. Analyse Learners’ Needs and Preferences: What approaches will most engage them?
3. Select Appropriate Teaching Methods: Which methods support the learning objectives?
4. Choose Supporting Resources: What materials will help clarify or enhance understanding?
5. Design Relevant Assessments: How will you know they’ve met the objectives?

Reviewing and evaluating the effectiveness of these choices is also important. Gathering feedback from learners and assessing outcomes against objectives can guide adjustments for future teaching.

Adapting to Challenges and Changes

Even the best plans might need change. Being flexible and responsive to challenges is key to effective teaching.

Common challenges:

• Technological Issues: Not all learners have the same access to technology. Be ready with alternatives.
• Diverse Abilities and Backgrounds: Adapt materials and activities to cater for all learners.
• Unexpected Disruptions: Have backup plans for disrupted schedules or missing resources.

Reflection and feedback are essential parts of teaching. They provide insights into what works and what might need adapting.

In Summary of Evaluation and Reflexivity

A good teacher constantly evaluates the impact of their choices. Reflecting on practice and remaining open to feedback improve teaching and learning quality.

• Continuous Learning: Professional development keeps teachers updated on best practices.
• Collaboration: Sharing experiences and strategies with other educators can lead to better outcomes.
• Feedback Incorporation: Learners’ thoughts can highlight unseen challenges and successes, guiding future planning.

Choosing teaching approaches, resources, and assessments is a dynamic process that requires reflection and adjustment. By focusing on learners’ needs and remaining adaptable, a teacher can support effective learning outcomes.