(TALS-08) Characteristics of Active Learner
Learning is a continuous process that leads to a
permanent change in an individual's knowledge or behavior due to experience. As
William James said, “The great aim of education is not knowledge but action.”
Therefore, it is crucial to develop active learning skills in students to
ensure that they can use their knowledge in practical settings.
Learning and Active Learning:
According to Woodworth, "Learning is the relatively
permanent change in a person’s knowledge or behavior due to experience."
This suggests that learning is an ongoing process that can have a long-lasting
impact on an individual's behavior or knowledge.
Active Learning through Conducting Experiments
One of the most effective ways to implement active
learning is by conducting experiments. This approach encourages students to
take an active role in the learning process by engaging in hands-on activities
that promote a deeper understanding of the material.
Nature of Active Learning
Active learning is centered on engaging students in the
learning process, promoting critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.
This approach encourages students to take an active role in their learning,
promoting a deeper understanding and retention of the material.
The Role of Teachers in Active Learning:
A teacher plays a crucial role in promoting active
learning. They have to fulfill five critical roles to be the best educator they
can be, including being a resource, providing support, being a mentor, being a
helping hand, and being a learner. By fulfilling these roles, teachers can
create an environment that fosters active learning and enhances students'
learning experience.
Characteristics of Active Learner:
- Active Learner
has a growth mindset:
Having a growth mindset is a vital trait of Active
Learners. They believe that their abilities and intelligence can be enhanced
through hard work and perseverance. They view challenges as opportunities for
growth and regard failure as a part of the learning process. With this mindset,
they keep pushing themselves to improve and reach their potential.
- Active
Learner is Brave:
Bravery is an essential characteristic of Active Learners.
They are not afraid to ask questions, seek help, or take risks. They embrace
challenges and step out of their comfort zone to learn new things. They take
responsibility for their actions and are not afraid to face the consequences of
their decisions.
- Active
Learner is Organised:
Being organised is a crucial trait of Active Learners.
They keep track of their assignments, deadlines, and schedules. They know how
to prioritise their tasks and manage their time effectively. They maintain a
tidy workspace and use tools like planners and calendars to stay on top of
their responsibilities.
- Active Learner
is able to deal with failure:
Active Learners understand that failure is a natural part
of the learning process. They don't let setbacks discourage them but instead
use them as opportunities to learn and grow. They bounce back from failures,
remain persistent, and keep trying until they succeed.
- Active Learner sets Goals:
Setting goals is a fundamental trait of Active Learners.
They have a clear vision of what they want to achieve and work towards it
consistently. They set realistic and achievable goals and break them down into
smaller steps. They measure their progress and adjust their strategies
accordingly.
- Active
Learner is able to connect to learning life:
Active Learners understand that learning is a continuous
process and not just confined to the classroom. They seek out opportunities to
learn and connect their learning to real-life situations. They are curious, ask
questions, and explore topics beyond what is taught in the classroom.
- Active
Learner knows how to look after his mental health:
Active Learners understand the importance of maintaining
their mental health. They take breaks when needed, practice self-care, and
engage in activities that bring them joy. They seek help when they need it and
support their peers in looking after their mental health.
- A Active Learner
values Education:
Active Learners values education and understands its
importance in their life. They recognise that education provides opportunities
and opens doors to various career paths. They take their education seriously and
put in the effort required to succeed in their studies.
Active Learning Promotes Recall and
Deeper Understanding
Active learning promotes recall and deeper understanding
of the material. Through hands-on activities and experiments, students can
engage in the learning process, promoting critical thinking, problem-solving,
and creativity. By taking an active role in their learning, students can
enhance their ability to apply their knowledge in practical settings.
Apart from the above-mentioned characteristics, some
additional qualities are required to become an active learner. Some of these
qualities are:
- Curiosity:
An active learner is always curious about the world around them. They ask
questions, seek answers, and strive to understand the world better.
- Self-motivation:
Active learners are self-motivated and take the initiative to seek out new
learning opportunities. They do not wait for someone else to motivate them
to learn.
- Persistence:
Active learners are persistent in their pursuit of knowledge. They do not
give up easily and continue to work hard even when faced with challenges.
- Collaborative:
Active learners understand the importance of collaboration and working
with others to achieve a common goal. They are open to feedback and
suggestions from others, and they seek out opportunities to learn from
their peers.
- Reflective:
Active learners are reflective about their learning experiences. They
think critically about what they have learned, how they learned it, and
how they can apply their new knowledge in the future.
In conclusion, active learning is an essential part of
the learning process for students. By developing the necessary skills and
characteristics required for active learning, students can enhance their
learning experience and achieve greater academic success. With the support of
teachers who fulfill their roles, students can engage in hands-on activities
and experiments, promote critical thinking and problem-solving, and become
successful active learners.
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