Introduction to the Learner-Centered Approach to Education

1. 8/25/2012 Instructor Orientation 1 Introduction to the Learner-Centered Approach to Education Beverly Roskos-Ewoldsen

2. 1-minute essay Describe in one paragraph the learner-centered approach to education.

3. Survey Use response pads

4. Learning Outcomes for this Session By the end of this session, participants will be able to Distinguish between course/teacher centered and learner-centered approaches to teaching Understand the role of assessment in the learner-centered approach Recognize the importance of documentation in the learner-centered approach

5. What is a Learner-Centered College? Focuses on the processes by which a student gains knowledge and understanding. Faculty seek to expand student understanding through an active learning partnership with the student.� Regular, timely, and thorough assessment of student learning is a key component.

6. Course (Teacher) Centered Approach Arts + Humanities + NS + Math + Social Sciences + History + Writing + Literature + Discipline courses = Quality Education Course objectives The whole is the sum of the parts

7. Learner-Centered Approach If a student has had a quality education, then he/she will be able to � Learning outcomes Course-specific information Gathering and synthesizing information, using and developing critical thinking skills, and problem solving

8. Learner-Centered Approach Content + Thinking Skills = Quality Education + Life-long Learner The whole is more than the sum of its parts

9. Pressures on Quality Education

10. Focus on the Learner

11. Setting up Student Expectations Identify learning outcomes for course Measurable Tied to specific assessments Incorporate technology Active involvement in learning experience Set attendance policy

12. Quiz Use response pads

13. Assessment of Learning Outcomes Primary role of outcome assessment is to improve student learning� Emphasis is on facilitating understanding through dialog and frequent feedback. Formally Assignments, specific questions on tests Informally Surveys, in-class assessments not tied to grades

14. Interpreting Assessments During class � did students understand? 1-minute essays Short quizzes Short surveys Address misunderstandings in class (formative assessments) Not tied to grades

15. Interpreting Assessments At end of semester (summative) Formal and informal outcome assessments Use for improvement Change explanation or examples Change activity Not necessarily tied to grades

16. Documenting the Process Thoughtful, intentional process Transparency Documentation Rubric

17. QEP Rubric

18. Ending Comment A major goal of the College is to fully incorporate this paradigm into the college�s academic culture by addressing it in our curriculum, our assessments of student learning, and in faculty evaluations.

19. 1-minute essay Describe in one paragraph the learner-centered approach to education.

20. Final Survey Use clickers