Shifting to a Learning-Centered Approach
What it is:
The shift to a Learning-Centered Approach represents a fundamental change in the philosophy and practice of education. It moves the primary focus from the teacher as the source and transmitter of knowledge (Teaching-Centered) to placing the learner and their active process of constructing understanding and meaning at the core.
This paradigm views students not as passive recipients of information but as active participants who build knowledge and understanding from various information sources and experiences. The faculty member in this approach acts as a facilitator, guide, and designer of learning environments and experiences that enable this active construction.
This doesn’t diminish the faculty’s role; rather, it makes it more complex and critical in orchestrating meaningful learning. It aligns directly with the KKU Learning Paradigm’s core principle of moving from faculty transferring knowledge to faculty enabling student discovery and construction. It also resonates with Education 4.0’s emphasis on developing abilities and skills, and the OECD’s focus on student agency.
How to implement it:
Implementing a Learning-Centered Approach begins with understanding your students – their prior knowledge, experiences, interests, and diverse learning styles. Based on this understanding, design a variety of learning activities that encourage students to actively engage, think critically, solve problems, and collaborate.
Examples include using case studies (real or simulated), implementing project-based learning, facilitating small group discussions, utilizing simulations or role-playing, integrating technology for flexible and accessible learning, and providing opportunities for students to choose topics or methods aligned with their interests.
Assessment methods shift towards evaluating the ability to apply knowledge, solve problems, and develop skills, rather than solely testing memorization. Faculty use open-ended questions to stimulate thought, pose challenging questions that provoke deeper understanding, and create a safe environment where students feel comfortable experimenting, expressing ideas, and taking responsibility for their learning.
Practical Tips for Implementation:
- Start Small: You don’t need to transform an entire course at once. Begin with one module or topic where active learning can be easily integrated.
- Redesign Learning Activities: Instead of dedicating most class time to lectures, allocate significant portions to activities like problem-solving workshops, group discussions, peer teaching, or debates.
- Provide Clear Instructions: Clearly articulate the learning objectives for each activity and what is expected of students.
- Use Technology Wisely: Learning Management Systems (LMS) like UProve, online collaboration tools, interactive simulations, or polling software can support active and collaborative learning both inside and outside the classroom.
- Vary Assessment Methods: Incorporate forms of assessment beyond traditional exams, such as presentations, project reports, portfolios, peer evaluations, and self-assessments. Focus on assessing higher-order thinking skills.
- Allocate Time for Feedback: Provide timely and constructive feedback on student performance during activities, focusing on their process and understanding, not just the final outcome.
- Manage Large Classes: In large classes, use techniques like think-pair-share, buzz groups, or online discussion forums to encourage participation. Assign group projects that allow students to work collaboratively outside of direct supervision time.
- Address Diverse Backgrounds: Offer a variety of resources and activities to cater to different learning styles and levels of prior knowledge. Provide supplementary materials or optional activities for students who need extra support or want to explore topics further.
Its value and benefits:
A Learning-Centered Approach offers significant value in developing graduates aligned with KKU’s philosophy and the demands of Education 4.0.
Enhancing “Wittaya” (Knowledge & Skills)
It enables students to construct knowledge through active engagement and real-world problem-solving, leading to more profound understanding and the ability to apply knowledge effectively. Essential 21st-century skills like critical thinking, complex problem-solving, collaboration, and communication are developed naturally.
Fostering “Jariya” (Ethics & Characters)
It promotes teamwork, respecting diverse perspectives, taking responsibility, and developing perseverance. Desired graduate attributes like integrity and good character are cultivated.
Igniting “Panya” (Wisdom)
It encourages curiosity, out-of-the-box thinking, and connecting knowledge from various sources for creative problem-solving. The wisdom gained from active learning and critical thinking prepares graduates to navigate future uncertainties and complex problems.
This approach aligns with Education 4.0’s principles of personalized learning, accessible education, and lifelong learning, ensuring KKU graduates are well-rounded and ready to contribute sustainably to society. Furthermore, this approach addresses challenges like student disengagement by making learning more relevant and interactive. It prepares students for a job market that values adaptability and problem-solving over rote memorization.