THE LEARNING PROCESS

So far, the discussion has been from the point of view of teaching. The object has been to clue you in as to (let you know about) what is involved in the process as the teacher sees it (from the perspective of the teacher). This is a necessary part of becoming a self-confident learner: one who understands the process he or she is undergoing (experiencing) and who is aware of the contribution (input) required of them.

Now let us take a look at the teaching/learning process as the student sees it (from the perspective of the learner).

Think of a situation where you had to learn something or wanted to learn something. Maybe this was for work, or school, or family or even for recreation, such as a sport or a hobby. This could be learning to play football, to bake a cake or to read and write English. What did you do?

The first thing you probably did was to think about who could teach you. Perhaps, finally, you went to a school or a formal class or course of instruction, but for this example, let us say that you asked your neighbor, friend or relative to teach you. Whatever the situation, you will have chosen someone whom you believe can get the job done.

Next, you would have had to ask them to teach you. It is likely that you would explain your reasons for wanting to learn and why you think that this person would be a good teacher. Assuming this person agrees to teach you, then you would undoubtedly discuss what was needed to be done (accomplished), the time it would take, scheduling arrangements, and so forth.

After all this was decided, you would begin to attend sessions where you would be taught and you would learn. You would be given tasks and information. You would be instructed to learn, read and understand the information presented. Eventually, you would be asked to demonstrate the skills you have learned.

Copyright: 2004 English 4 All, Inc.