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What is the difference between Teacher-Centered and Learner-Centered Approach?

Key Difference: The difference between Teacher-Centered and Learner-Centered Approach is that in the Teacher-Centered Approach, the teacher is the center of the learning process and directs it, whereas, in the Learner-Centered Approach, learners are actively involved in their own learning and are encouraged to discover things for themselves.

The objectives of the two approaches are also different.

The Teacher-Centered Approach focuses on teaching learners what they need to know, while the Learner-Centered Approach aims at helping learners learn how to think for themselves and be creative.

What is Teacher-Centered Approach?

It is an instructional approach that focuses on the teacher as the primary source of information and support for students.

The teacher provides explanations, demonstrations, and examples for students to follow.

This approach is often used in traditional classrooms where the teacher stands in front of the class and lectures students.

The main goal is for the teacher to ensure that all students understand the material.

What is Learner-Centered Approach?

The learner-centered approach to teaching and learning is an educational philosophy that puts the student at the center of the learning process.

According to this perspective, students are more likely to learn when they are actively engaged in the learning process, and when they have control over their own learning.

Teachers who use a learner-centered approach believe that it is important to provide students with opportunities to ask questions, explore new ideas, and reflect on their own learning.

Teacher-Centered vs Learner-Centered Approach

Key differences between teacher-centered approach and learner-centered approach –

Way of teaching

The two approaches differ in the way that teachers deliver instruction.

In a teacher-centered classroom, the teacher is more dominant and provides most of the instruction.

In a learner-centered classroom, students are given more opportunities to participate in the learning process and to take control of their own learning.

Focus on student

The two approaches also differ in their focus on the student.

A teacher-centered approach focuses on ensuring that all students understand the material.

A learner-centered approach focuses on helping students learn by engaging them in the learning process and giving them control over their own learning.

This approach is often considered to be more effective in helping students learn.

Goal

The objective of a teacher-centered approach is to ensure that students get the information from the teacher.

On the other hand, the goal of a learner-centered approach is to ensure that students are able to understand and use the information.

So, there’s a difference in terms of the end goal too.

Classroom Environment

The environment in a teacher-centered classroom is more structured and disciplined.

The focus is on the teacher and students are required to listen attentively and take notes.

On the other hand, the environment in a learner-centered classroom is more relaxed.

The focus is on the students and teachers provide opportunities for students to ask questions and explore new ideas.

This is one of the biggest differences between the two approaches.

Similarities

Despite the differences, there are some similarities between the two approaches.

Both approaches require teachers to be knowledgeable about the subject they are teaching.

In addition, both approaches emphasize the importance of student engagement and active learning.

Which is a better approach?

There is no clear answer as to which approach is better.

Some people believe that teacher-centered classrooms are more effective, while others believe that learner-centered classrooms are more effective.

The best way to decide which approach is right for you is to try both approaches and see which one works better for your students.

However, it’s the learner-centered approach that is becoming more popular in today’s classrooms.

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