New Approach to Learning

In classrooms today, I have seen many new techniques for teaching being implemented. I feel as though right now is sort of an experimental time in education because we are figuring out how to bridge the gap between a classroom where the teacher is in total control and a classroom where the students control their learning process. The pyramid shows the retention rates for passive teaching methods (teacher is in control) and participatory teaching methods (students participate in discussions, conferences, teaching peers etc.). The pyramid clearly indicates that students have a much higher retention rate when they are involved in the lessons. Having done several classroom observations, I find that this is true. The passive teaching style is often only targeted for one group of students and will not reach many of the students in the class. This style often is geared for the more advanced students who do not need futher practice or even further explanation. However, participatoy teaching methods allow all students to be involved in the lessons. All students are guided by the teacher and participate in discussions and collaboration with peers. This piques students' interests and maintins their attention, therefore increasing their retention rates. Also, this method teaches students to listen to others before providing input and learn how to communicate effectively.