SLC | S21W1: Developing a Learning Contract
Learning ContractHello everyone!
I salute you all and welcome to my post. I am thrilled to be participating in this week's learning challenge, And most important we're going to be discussing on developing a learning contract which is one of the most important aspects of my career as a teacher. With that aspect, I have a lot to say about this. Let's get started.
Can I explain what obstacles a teacher may face in the classroom learning process?
on campus with a colleague
There is a lot to discuss about on this topic. Teaching learning process is so much of a complex task which need to be handled with care. A lot of problems I often observe in the classroom when carrying out the teaching process From the students which are so numerous .
As a teacher, these are the things I have often experienced while carrying on my duties as a teacher. First, there is a problem of noise making Which often comes as a result of children a reluctant to learn despite the effort put in under prefer discuss with your friends and disturb the whole lesson.
Another aspect is disrespect. At some point in time, children tend to be more disrespectful than someone can equally imagine. Children either talk back At their teachers are refuse to obey instructions when asked to.
In this cases We often follow disciplinary procedures to overcome such.
Yet another problem, there is this problem of children taking naps in class. Why lessons are going on. There are several reasons based on research, which are as such, children often spend late night watching TV or reading over time escaping their sleep schedule. As we all know, you can't trick nature. Your body will obviously find time to repay back the missing sleep at an inconvenient time.
And last but Not the least is the problem of unconsciousness . This is a serious problem as children are present in class and pretending to follow up. But then when asked to reproduce what they have learned so far, we discovered that they are so empty. Based on research carried out, it is often realize that some children have personal problems or family related problems which keeps them disturbed in their education .
What do I think is the importance of learning contracts and how have learning contracts helped my teaching process so far?
Students on break
To begin with, we will first of all Have to discuss on what is learning contract is all about.
A learning contract just like any other contract is a set of clearly defined rules and regulation which are strictly to be followed by a teacher and his or her learners to enhance the teaching learning process. It could come in several from such as; objectives of a lesson, rules and regulation following up a classroom. There are several learning contracts but let's discuss on a few.
Key Elements of a Learning Contract:
Learning Goals: Clearly defined objectives the student aims to achieve.
Learning Activities: Specific tasks, projects, or readings the student will undertake to reach their goals.
Assessment Methods: How the student's progress and achievement will be evaluated (e.g., assignments, presentations, reflections).
Timeline: A schedule for completing the learning activities and assessments.
Student and Instructor Responsibilities: Outlines the roles and commitments of both parties.
Benefits of Learning Contracts:
As a teacher, here are some of the benefits we can Get from a learning contract in a teaching context.
Enhanced Student Engagement: By using Learning contracts One can empower students by giving them ownership over their learning process. This can promote increased motivation and engagement as students will actively participate in setting goals and choosing learning activities wisely
Improved Student Outcomes: By clearly defining expectations and providing a structure for learning, contracts for learning can help students stay on track and validate their goals. This can result in improved academic performance and skill development of the learners
Fostered Self-Directed Learning: Learning contracts promote self-directed learning by encouraging students to take accountability for their own learning. This will help students develop precise skills such as time management, problem-solving, and critical thinking In their learning process.
Strengthened Teacher-Student Relationships: introducing learning contracts can facilitate open communication and interaction between teachers and students. By working together As a team to develop and monitor learning contracts, teachers and students can both build stronger relationships based on trust and mutual respect.
Differentiated Instruction: Learning contracts can be followed up to meet the individual needs and learning styles of different students. This can help ensure that all students have equal opportunity to succeed.
Example of a Learning Contract:
| Define Learning Goal | profound Learning Activities | Assessment | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Understand the principles of sustainable design | Research sustainable building materials, visit eco-friendly buildings, and analyze case studies. | Written report and presentation. | 6 weeks |
What important components should be included in a learning contract and explain why they are helpful to you?
lab session
For learning contract to be effective. They are some key components which must be put in place in order for it to go on effectively. They are;
Learning Goals: Before we begin our lessons, I state Clearly defined objectives that the student aims to achieve. This helps focus the learning process and provides a clear target for the student to work towards.
Learning Activities: Specific tasks, projects, or readings I also mentioned in my learning contract that the student will undertake to reach their goals. This provides a structured approach to learning and helps ensure that the student is actively engaged in the process.
Assessment Methods: Equallyy the learning contract stipulates on How the student's progress and achievement will be evaluated (e.g., assignments, presentations, reflections). This provides accountability and helps the student track their progress.
Timeline: It is also important for me to give a schedule for completing the learning activities and assessments. This helps keep the student on track and ensures that they are making progress towards their goals.
Student and Instructor Responsibilities: before concluding with my learning contract, I Outlines the roles and commitments of both parties. This helps ensure that both the student and the instructor(myself ) are clear on their expectations and responsibilities.
These components are impactful because they provide a Defined framework for learning, promote accountability, and promote communication between the student and the tutors. By accounting a clear understanding of their goals, activities, and assessments, students can take responsibility of their learning and work more effectively To achieve greater results.
What are your strategies for ensuring student compliance with the learning contract and how have the consequences worked so far, or do you have other ways of organizing the learning activities to remain effective?
Evaluation.
Learning contracts can be stated and signed by both the teachers and student. But what are the measures we have to put in place to make sure this learning contract is respected. In my classroom these are the things I will do in order to ensure that my learning contract is following its proformity and not compromised.
Clear Communication and Mutual Agreement:
I Ensure that the learning contract is clear, concise, and mutually agreed upon by both myself and student.
To throw more light on the contract I Discuss the reasons behind each component of the contract to foster understanding and buy-in.
Regular Check-ins and Progress Monitoring:
Making sure I Schedule regular check-ins to discuss progress, address any challenges, and offer support.
I Applying progress tracking tools or methods to visually monitor achievements and deadlines.
Positive Reinforcement and Encouragement:
I always encourage and Acknowledge or celebrate milestones and achievements, no matter how small.
Equally I Offer constructive feedback and guidance to help students stay motivated and on track.
Flexible Approach and Adaptability:
I am equally open to adjusting the learning contract as needed to accommodate changes in circumstances or learning styles.
Of course at the times provide alternative learning activities or resources if the original plan isn't working.
Collaborative Problem-Solving:
By Working together with the students , we can identify and overcome obstacles that may hinder progress.
I am of oblige to Brainstorm solutions and explore different approaches to achieve the learning goals.
Conclusion.
Learning contracts takes the form of personalized study plans. They help students and teachers stay on the track about goals, tasks, and deadlines. This makes learning more organize and effective. To ensure things keep moving smoothly, it's important to have open communication, regular check-ins, and positive reinforcement With the Learners. By collaborating together, students and teachers can create a Impact learning environment that promote success.
It's been an amazing learning challenge and I won't go away without inviting the following persons to join me. Participate on this amazing change. @chant, @simonnwigwe, @wirngo, @fombae
Cc: @miftahulrizky
Credit to: @rafk