Understanding Effective Learning

Within education, concepts such as learning styles, learning strategies and independent learning are often cited as important areas for development in schools (DFES 1998, 2001) but these are rarely satisfactorily defined. It is essential for teachers to develop a detailed understanding of learning across the curriculum, as well as appropriate strategies, if children are to learn effectively.

This book explores these important concepts by examining learning in a range of classroom settings and drawing on evidence from teachers and pupils, through interviews and observations. The focus is two-fold: to understand learning in the classroom, and to develop practices which will support learning. Topics explored include:

• Models of learning
• Learning strategies and the teacher
• Learning strategies and the learner
• Assessment for Learning
• The social dimension of children’s learning

The book provides a rich mixture of examples, reflection points, case studies and strategies for the classroom to provide the reader with a wide range of ideas to encourage more effective learning in their classroom.

Understanding Effective Learning is key reading for student, beginning and early career teachers in primary education.