CONTENTS PAGE
Learning Theories Page 2 - 7
Assessment for Learning Page 7 - 10
The Curriculum for Excellence Page 10 - 13
Responsibility of all: Literacy, Numeracy and Health and Wellbeing Page 14 – 16
Bibliography Page 17 – 18
Appendices
PGDE – ASSESSMENT A
“Effective Teaching For Successful Learning”
The links between teaching and learning are very complex. This essay will focus on learning theories, assessment, the Curriculum for Excellence and how a knowledge and understanding of these is crucial to planning and providing engaging and inclusive learning opportunities for all young people. In each part of this essay, I will critically reflect upon my own school experience in order to support my understanding of effective teaching for successful learning.
LEARNING THEORIES
Behaviourism
Skinner is one of the most significant psychologists associated with Behaviourism. Through his work he developed a theory around the role of stimulus, response, reinforcement and consequence in learning. (Pollard, A., (2008).) This learning theory suggests that we learn by building up associations between experiences, thinking and behaviour. (Pollard, A., (2008).) Behaviourist learning theory has had a huge impact on education; resulting in whole-class approaches where successful learning means to be “taught”. The learner takes on a passive role, whilst the teacher is active. This style of teaching is dominant in our society; “we have a deep seated cultural belief that teaching is telling and learning is listening.” (Watkins, C., (2003).) Behaviourists view communication as one way. In a sense the teacher is the “expert” in their field and they are passing on their knowledge to their pupils. When looking at learning theories, it is important to remember that all children learn differently. Therefore a knowledge and understanding of different theories and being able to adapt your teaching style is greatly...