Teaching and Learning

The Three Steps In Learning

Teachers are often asked two questions by parents: 

1. How does my child learn (what are the basics)? 
2. How can I help my child to study? 

A great deal of research has been completed by cognitive scientists about how people learn. Up until the early 2000's much of the research had been carried out in university laboratories, however by 2005 there was a shift in the way academics researched learning; researchers began to study student learning within an authentic classroom setting. During this time, we have also seen the rise of pracademics (those who have combined skills in experience and knowledge), who have made research more accessible and relevant to school communities. 

According to Bain (2020) we can summarise learning into three simple steps: 

1. Encoding – The process of getting information (the many ways parents and teachers use to give information to students). 
2. Storage – Retaining information in memory in a way that it can be accessed later. 
3. Retrieval – The process of pulling stored information out of memory. 

Knowing how to learn is a very powerful tool, as it helps our students to learn even more! 

In the classroom our teachers use language and techniques to encourage our students to be more aware of the learning process and how they are taking part in it.  

In her book Powerful Teaching: A Guide for Parents Bain (2020) lists some ideas that parents can share with their children at home to further build their understanding of the learning process: 

• Research exists that shows us how people learn. 
• By using this research and these strategies, learning increases and knowledge is retained. 
• When research-backed strategies are used: 
  • Students are able to study more effectively and efficiently, often decreasing study time. 
  • Students were more prepared for tests, which lessens anxiety. 

We encourage parents to ask their children questions, not just about what they are learning, but importantly how they are learning. 

Reference 

Bain, P. (2020). Powerful teaching: A Guide for Parents. Woodbridge, UK: John Catt. 

Karen Whelan

Deputy Principal - Staff, Teaching and Learning/Psychology