The Learner-Centered Classroom response

I found the article, The Learner-Centered Classroom by Terry Doyle very effective and true. Doyle discusses several important points about having a learner-centered classroom. I think it is important to have the students involved in the process of learning as much as possible. Although students are always referred to as learners, Doyle stresses how students must also contribute to the process of learning. Students are often disengaged during their lessons and only do minimal work; however if their lessons were directed more towards interactive group work or presentations, I believe the students would be more engaged. Furthermore, I think it is crucial for students to know why they are learning certain things and how the lesson will eventually pertain to their future.

I agree with Doyle and his opinions about a learner-centered classroom. However, I think that there should be a variety of ways for learners to learn, rather than focusing on just group activities and presentations because it will always be difficult to motivate the students who do not feel comfortable speaking in front of their peers. Yet, if we practice learner-centered classroom approaches in lower grade levels more frequently I think it would make a difference in students attitudes as they grow older.

I would use this approach in my classroom in various ways. For certain art lessons I will break my class into groups and have them find solutions to the problem together and create a group work. I will also have some projects that center around research intensive papers or presentations depending on the grade level.