Developing Independent Learning in Secondary Schools

Objectives

Independent learning is a critical both in regards to raising standards, as well as bridging the gap between Secondary Schools, Colleges, HE and the workplace. As a result of this, the Centre for Educational Excellence is delivering an intensive one day course designed for senior leaders and classroom practitioners who wish to secure more independent learning in their schools. It will focus on how effective classroom practice, support for individual students and consistent application of policy at whole-institution level promotes greater independent learning.

So much of what we do in schools today actually compromises the ability of our students to become effective learners. Effective tracking and monitoring systems can easily lead to dependence rather than independence and classroom practice frequently sacrifices challenge in favour of strategies, which effectively spoon-feeds learners.

To address these issues we will focus on the following key questions:

• What do we understand by independent learning?
• How do we move students from compliance to active engagement in their learning?
• How can schools create opportunities for students to learn independently?
• What skills do teachers need to encourage independent learning?
• How can the curriculum best incorporate thinking and study skills?

20/06/2013 09:30 - 15:00