Many scholars have upheld the Student-Centered Learning Theory – but the first to be credited with the idea of learners being given power in the teaching-learning process, was Hayward, as early as 1905. In 1956, Dewey continued upon this tenet, and today, the number of researchers to add to the literature and discussion is too many to mention. In 1999, Carl Rogers was given the credit for developing SCL into an educational theory.
In traditional education, teachers lecture and present assignments and give quizzes and tests. Instructors who ascribe to SCL methods, attempts to share the responsibility of learning with the student – by taking a role of “coach” in the learning process, creating “active learning” situations, and putting groups together to learn cooperatively.
Seven tenets of Student-Centered Learning were published in 2003:
The reliance on active rather than passive learning.
An emphasis on deep learning and understanding
Increased responsibility and accountability on the part of the student
An increased sense of autonomy in the learner
An interdependence between teacher and learner
Mutual respect within the learner teacher relationship
And a reflexive approach to the teaching and learning process on the part of both teacher and learner.
(Lea, et al, O’Neill & McMahon).
One of the major contributions SCL has made to education is the concept of Cooperative Learning. This practice has improved classroom learning by encouraging dialogue, cooperation, and active learning. Research has even shown that students who work in cooperative learning groups, earn better grades.
The online environment is a perfect place for SCL to find itself at home. Because of the physical distance between teacher and student, traditional lectures and tests are not sufficient for learner success. The Discussion Board element of an online course is a perfect example of SCL at work. Students are given a topic, a list of readings, and are asked to discuss a set of questions related to the topic.
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O’Neill, G. & McMahon, T. (2005). “Student-Centered Learning: What does it mean for students and lecturers?” HEA-AISHE. Retrieved 9-26-09 from http://www.aishe.org/readings/2005-1/oneill-mcmahon-Tues_19th_Oct_SCL.html
Felder, R. M. & Brent, R. “Navigating the bumpy road to Student-Centered Instruction”. Retrieved 9-25-09 from http://www4.ncsu.edu/unity/lockers/users/f/felder/public/Papers/Resist.html
