ADFD133 Understanding Learning

10 cp
Co-requisite ADFX110 Professional Experience 1

This unit is the second in a sequence of six units designed to expand the students knowledge of learning processes. The unit explores a range of relevant theories to help students understand their own and others learning. It thus enables teacher education students gain key knowledge for their central professional task of constructing effective learning environments. Particular emphasis is placed on relevant aspects of the learner, the teacher and their interrelationships as well as learner differences. As part of their studies, students will work in groups as learning communities. These experiences and their experiences in school settings will be used to provide a base for the concepts and theories of learning introduced in the unit. The unit enables students to develop knowledge of the variety of ways in which human beings can learn: become aware of different forms of learning physical, perceptual, rote memorising, metacognitive, narrative, analytical; understand human learning as an active process of meaning making; comprehend important theories of learning, cognition and intelligences and their cultural histories; and explore differences in learning styles and other individual and group differences in cognition and learning. This study will assist students in developing strategies to help children and themselves to become more effective learners. Using technology as a tool for learning will be incorporated throughout the unit. In terms of the dimensions of quality pedagogy, Unit 2 looks to the dimensions of intellectual quality (notably elements of deep knowledge, deep understanding, problematic knowledge, higher order thinking) and quality learning environment (with specific reference to elements of explicit quality criteria, engagement, high expectations, social support and student direction).