Minimize Distractions
Interruptions are just one kind of distraction in a learning situation. Speaking while a student is reading, unnecessary background noise, standing in front of writing on a chalkboard, and unexpected mishaps are all distractions. By diverting the student's focus on something other than the learning experience, you lose flow. It is also possible to lose memory records by pushing them out of short-term memory to make room for dealing with the distracting situation. Time must be spent refocusing on the original learning experience. Not everything can be avoided, but these cases should be reduced as much as possible. [ Back to the top | Next Topic ]
Comfortable Learning Environment
Comfort is affected by more than just minimizing distractions. The more comfortable an athlete's uniform is, the more they can move, and the more they can do. When a student is comfortable while learning, they are capable of doing more. If a student is comfortable asking questions in class, they will be able clear up misconceptions that they may have. Student questions can even redirect the flow to better suit the class. It is important that students feel that they have some control over their learning environment. If they know that it is acceptable to modify their class, they can recognize their roll in their own learning. [ Back to the top | Next Topic ]
Adequate Sources to Learn From
Learning can take place in nearly any situation through the use of various models. In schools, the instructor primarily controls formal learning. The ability of a teacher has a big roll in effective learning. Teachers with a poor understanding of the material taught can cause students to doubt the competence of the teacher overall. Similarly, a teacher with no respect for students will lose the respect of the students. If the students do not respect their teacher, the teacher will lack the authority needed to run the class.
Some other sources of learning are as demonstrations, books, movies, assignments, experiments, and other students. If the information from any one source is confusing or conflicts with another source, it can discourage students from proceeding to learn from the source. It is important that all sources be reliable and clearly presented. [ Back to the top | Next Page ]
This page was constructed by Peter Macedo, last modified on December 14, 1997.
If you have any comments please contact me: [email protected].
