Just like car models, phones, the internet and virtually every other thing, teaching styles have evolved significantly over the years; from the old memorization and recitation techniques to the modern tactics that involve interactive methods.
This article breaks down the fundamental differences between traditional and modern ways of learning.
Traditional teaching methods
The conventional education system is still commonly used in today schools. The old-fashioned method was more of recitation, where learners would sit in silence as they take turns reciting the lesson until each of them was called upon. The educator teacher would listen to every scholar’s recitation. Students were expected to revise and memorize all assignments. At the end of the course was a written test or sometimes oral examination to determine learner performance in a process known as Assignment Study Recitation Test.
Traditional education strategies ensured scholars were rewarded for their efforts, made the most of class periods and implemented policies to control students’ behavior. Generally, they were based on well-known customs that had been successfully practiced in schools over the years. Educators passed on the knowledge and enforced the code of ethics.
Progressive modern learning
New-age learning approaches teaching from a very different perspective. Progressive education focuses primarily on an individual learner’s needs rather than adopting the assumption that all scholars are at a similar level of understanding.
Modern teaching tactics focus more on using explanations, questioning, demonstrations as well as collaboration techniques to break down concepts to learners. Educators use Classroom management software to link up with their students and manage activities as teachers would do in classes, only this time it happens online.
Spaced learning is one modern method of studying. It involves educators encouraging students to quickly switch from one activity to the next, for instance; offering 10 minutes of studying a subject using a PowerPoint presentation and having 15 minutes break. Spaced learning is meant to help learners to attain better grades; and so far, it is bearing fruits!
K12 courses are also common today. Students can now take lessons online, take part in interactive discussions, watch educative videos and do virtually everything they need to complete their modules online successfully.
Different studies have pointed to the fact that the old “chalk and talk” tactic that has been in practice for years is inferior compared to the more modern teaching methods schools are increasingly adopting today. Greater learner interaction is encouraged as the boundaries of stringent authority are broken down, and the focus is more on enjoying lessons and better performance.
The bottom line
Conventional techniques insisted on repetition and cramming of information to teach students thereby hindered learners from developing their problem solving, decision-making and critical thinking skills. On the other hand, new learning encourages learner collaboration ensuring increased productivity. However, that said; both conventional and modern studying methods are both practical and helpful in today’s education.
The point is; educators need to understand when old tactics work best and when new and innovative techniques should be employed. That is so far the best way to make the most of these two education systems/
