Independent Learners

We seek the best for and from every student and we are holding onto this through remote learning. Our goal is to develop individuals with a strong sense of independence as they approach their learning both now and into the future.

Independent learning is a method or learning process where learners have ownership and control of their learning – they learn by their own actions and direct, regulate, and assess their own learning. The independent learner is able to set goals, make choices, and decisions about how to meet his learning needs, take responsibility for constructing and carrying out his own learning, monitor his progress toward achieving his learning goals, and self-assess the learning outcomes.

Livingston K. (2012) Independent Learning. In: Seel N.M. (eds) Encyclopedia of the Sciences of Learning. Springer, Boston, MA

One of the things teachers are noticing during the Remote Learning Program is that our students are rising to the challenge of taking ownership for their learning. Students are regularly preparing for class, reading through instructions and notes prior to class meetings, noting questions they need to ask the teacher and demonstrating the ability to reflect on what is working and what the challenges are in the RLP. But we know that there are ongoing challenges to be an independent learner. Self-awareness is something that takes time to cultivate. The ability to reflect and set meaningful, relevant and achievable goals can be difficult. This is something that adults are challenged by too.

The partnership that the teaching teams have with students and parents is vital if students are to learn and grow in independence. Your support at home plays an important role in assisting your child to manage their time, resources and to problem solve.

The Hamilton and Alexandra College subject teachers and Mentors are available to assist students in developing these attributes of an independent learner. Later in the term there will be an opportunity to have a conversation about the individual needs of each student.

In week 5, Year 12 students, their parents and the subject teachers will meet to reflect on learning progress.
In week 6, Year 7-11 students have the chance to meet with their parents and Mentor to have a holistic conversation around learning, organisation and motivation. This is a mid-term check in and to set goals for the remainder of the semester.

We believe that learning in the RLP is an opportunity to learn skills for life. Students will transfer these skills from the classroom to the wider world of work, on the sporting field and in their home and personal life. At College, our students strive to have the motivation, independence, initiative, time management, organisation and strong communication skills that are required to be successful in the future. We are doing things differently this term but seeking exceptional outcomes.

Teaching and Learning Update:

The Executive has approved the following changes to the Assessment and Reporting schedule for the RLP in Term 2:

No Semester One Examinations
An end of Term 2 Report will be published – subject grades only
Week 5: Year 12 Student, Parent and Teacher Interviews
Week 6: Year 7-11: Student, Parent and Mentor Interviews

More details about how to book and attend interviews will be published next week.

Susan Bradbeer

Deputy Principal of Teaching and Learning

English - An Invitation

The National Theatre has released several of their sell out productions to the public during this time of COVID 19.

The Year 8 students have been studying Frankenstein by Mary Shelley this term and learning about Gothic Literature. In 2018 it was the 200th anniversary of Shelley’s famous novel. Frankenstein is being streamed from 1 May until 8 May. It stars Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller and was directed by Academy Award winner Danny Boyle (Trainspotting, Slumdog Millionaire). We invite you to make the most of this opportunity to watch an excellent production of Frankenstein. This will add value to the students’ understanding of the text and Gothic fiction in general. The link can be found here:

http://ntlive.nationaltheatre.org.uk/productions/ntlin4‐frankenstein

Mrs Bradbeer, Mrs Prosser, Mrs Nichols

The Hamilton and Alexandra College Newsletter

Issue 12 · 30 Apr 2020

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