A Beginner's Guide to Learning Centers in the Classroom

The secondary science classroom typically relies heavily on lecture and recitation methods to impart knowledge. However, the modern classroom pushes for a format that is based in a curriculum involving scientific inquiry and... [ view full abstract ]

The secondary science classroom typically relies heavily on lecture and recitation methods to impart knowledge. However, the modern classroom pushes for a format that is based in a curriculum involving scientific inquiry and realistic problems. Although typically only seen in elementary and middle school settings, Steurer (1978) and colleagues believe that learning centers provide educators with an opportunity to meet the demands of a modern curriculum. This requires educators move beyond the teacher-directed format towards a student-driven classroom that allows individual, one-on-one interaction with students in the hopes to arouse scientific interest. Research shows that adolescent students have different physical and social needs than adults. For that reason, learning centers containing multi-sensory and differentiated activities, provide a perfect learning opportunity along with positive social interaction with peers. Furthermore, according to Steurer (1978) learning centers teach core content while providing opportunities for children to learn other important skills, such as responsibility, decision-making, and self-evaluation. A selection of carefully planned activities in a learning center can give students a chance to work in ways they learn best and strengthen other areas at their own pace. All of this adds up to increased self-confidence and ownership in learning and greater student success. In essence, this cross-disciplinary approach to teaching materials in a classroom embodies what it means to cross boundaries and disciplines on the most fundamental of levels.