The "Student-Centred Approaches in Teaching and Learning" course is a comprehensive and practical training program designed to equip educators with the knowledge, skills, and practical strategies to implement inquiry-based learning, cooperative learning, project-based learning, and the flipped classroom approach in their classrooms. This course aims to empower participants to create dynamic and engaging learning environments that foster critical thinking, collaboration, and student agency.

 

This course takes a practical approach, providing participants with a variety of resources, lesson plans, and instructional strategies that can be immediately implemented in their classrooms. Participants will engage in hands-on activities, develop their own inquiry-based, cooperative, and project-based lessons, and design flipped classroom modules. They will receive guidance and feedback from experienced facilitators and will have the opportunity to collaborate with peers to refine their teaching practices.

 

Throughout the course, participants will gain an in-depth understanding of each student-centred approach and its specific benefits. They will explore inquiry-based learning, where students actively investigate and explore real-world questions, fostering curiosity, problem-solving, and deep understanding. Participants will also delve into cooperative learning, discovering how to structure collaborative tasks, promote positive interdependence, and develop teamwork and communication skills among their students. Moreover, participants will explore project-based learning, a methodology that allows students to engage in authentic, long-term projects, promoting interdisciplinary skills, research abilities, and creativity. They will also learn about the flipped classroom model, where instructional content is provided outside of class, allowing in-class time for active discussions, hands-on activities, and personalized learning support.

 

By the end of the course, participants will have acquired a toolkit of practical strategies and instructional techniques to implement inquiry-based learning, cooperative learning, project-based learning, and the flipped classroom effectively. They will be able to design engaging lessons, facilitate collaborative learning experiences, and integrate technology to support student-centered learning. This Erasmus+ course will empower educators to create vibrant and student-centered classrooms that inspire a love for learning, foster critical thinking, and prepare students for success in the 21st century.

1. Understand the principles and theoretical foundations of inquiry-based learning, cooperative learning, project-based learning, and the flipped classroom approach.
2. Explore the benefits and advantages of student-centred approaches in promoting student engagement, critical thinking, collaboration, and independent learning.
3. Acquire practical strategies and techniques to implement inquiry-based learning, cooperative learning, project-based learning, and the flipped classroom in the classroom.
4. Develop the ability to design and facilitate student-centred lessons, activities, and assessments that cater to diverse learning needs and promote active student engagement.
5. Gain practical experience in planning and implementing inquiry-based, cooperative, and project-based lessons, as well as flipped classroom modules.
6. Learn how to effectively manage the classroom dynamics and create a supportive and inclusive learning environment for student-centred approaches.
7. Explore the integration of technology tools and resources to enhance student-centred learning experiences.
8. Reflect on personal teaching practices and pedagogical approaches, and identify areas for growth and improvement in implementing student-centred approaches.
9. Engage in collaborative discussions and knowledge sharing with fellow educators from different countries, gaining cross-cultural perspectives on student-centred teaching and learning.
10. Develop a comprehensive toolkit of resources, lesson plans, and instructional strategies to implement student-centred approaches effectively and sustainably.

Lessons will taka place Monday to Friday in the morning 

 

 

Day 1: Introduction to Student-Centred Learning

 

Welcoming and Introduction to the programme

Presentation of participants

Introduction to Student-Centred Learning: an overview of the course objectives, expectations, and the importance of student-centred approaches in modern education.

Icebreaker Activity: to foster connections and create a collaborative learning environment.

Interactive Group Discussion: a group discussion on participants' prior experiences and perceptions of student-centred learning.

 

Day 2:  Project-Based Learning Module I

 

Introduction to the principles and characteristics of Project-Based Learning (PBL)

Designing Effective Project-Based Learning Units

Steps for designing a project-based learning unit: defining a driving question, setting goals, and outlining project tasks

Peer Feedback and Improvement on Project-Based Learning Designs

Project-Based Learning Implementation Strategies

Strategies for effectively launching a PBL unit and generating student interest

 

Day 3: Project Based Learning Module II

 

Facilitating student inquiry, problem-solving, and critical thinking during the project

Authentic Assessment in Project-Based Learning

Showcasing and Celebrating Project-Based Learning

Developing an action plan for implementing project-based learning in participants' own classrooms

Day 4: Flipped Classroom 

 

The Flipped Classroom Approach: Concepts and Benefits 

Designing a Mini-Flipped Lesson: Instructional Materials and In-Class Activities

Flipped Classroom Implementation Activity: Participants design and develop a mini-flipped lesson, selecting appropriate instructional materials and planning interactive in-class activities to reinforce learning.

Showcase and Reflection: Participants showcase their mini-flipped lessons to the group, followed by a reflection session on the challenges, successes, and potential applications of the flipped classroom approach.

Day 5: Inquiry-Based Learning and Cooperative Learning Strategies

 

Inquiry-Based Learning: Understand the key elements of inquiry-based learning, designing effective inquiry questions, and facilitating student-led investigations.

Cooperative Learning: the different types of cooperative learning structures, strategies for group formation, and fostering positive interdependence and collaboration among students.

Inquiry-Based Learning Workshop: a workshop where participants engage in a sample inquiry-based learning activity, collaborating in small groups to investigate a real-world problem or question.

Cooperative Learning Simulation: Engage participants in a cooperative learning simulation activity, providing them with a hands-on experience of working collaboratively towards a common goal.

Reflection, Sharing and Certificates: Presenting course completion certificates to participants as recognition of their successful completion of the course and confirmation of Erasmus+ documents