Teaching methods that favour 21st century learners

CBC: Kimase primary school grade 4 class teacher Ruth Nyandieka shows pupils how to cook tubers (energy giving foods) using the boiled method at their school on December 7, 2021. [Sammy Omingo, Standard]

Over the years, there have been notable changes in pedagogy. There has been a departure from regurgitating factual knowledge to the application of concepts and skills. And with the rapid evolution of life informed by technology, changing needs et cetera, the modern learner is wired differently. And as such, teaching methods have had to evolve too. Interactive learning and learner centeredness have taken precedence over individualised and teacher centeredness. Learners’ needs, interests and preferences hugely inform pedagogy like never before.

This is an education reform that provides an entirely different approach to teaching and learning. The instructor strives to meet the learner at their point of need/interest/preference. The teacher, therefore, ought to have a good understanding of their student, and an understanding to the latest trends and fads. The teacher ought to know what makes the learner tick. Nothing is more effective.