Positive Learning Outcomes: How To Achieve Them

Effective teaching skills that lead to positive student learning outcomes are the objective of every teacher. There are many ways to foster a positive student learning environment that considers the learning styles of each student and that devises a plan to encompass these styles in a learning experience that is both positive and attainable.

Teaching plans for positive learning outcomes

The first step to create positive learning outcomes is to devise a plan with specific goals and determinations for learning outcomes. A strong teaching plan is student focused and includes:

• Detailed information that spells out the goals and expectations for the students
• What each student should know and be able to do upon completion of the class
• Measurable assessment tools that gauge learning outcomes
• Class and home assignments that help students clearly understand the subject matter that is being taught.

Good teachers know that a teaching plan is not a solo activity. A good leadership assessment curriculum is best when several opinions and teaching styles are discussed. Communicating with other teachers during the planning process helps to determine ways to introduce concepts that are most likely to be understood and followed by each student.

Learning styles and student development

Every teacher should take into account that no two students learn the same way. Each plan must have room for revision that adapts to the learning styles of the individuals being taught. “A well-thought out course eliminates confusion and helps you and your students focus on what matters most.”  While this is a difficult task, it is nonetheless important to learning outcomes. Learning styles include visual, verbal, listening, kinesthetic, logical and social learners. Including activities that cater to each learning style will help students retain the information taught. There are ways to incorporate several teaching styles at one time. For example, for the visual learner it is important to visually convey what is being taught, so graphs, maps, charts and notes on a whiteboard during the lecture will ensure that their attention is held along with the listening learners.

Good student development and learning outcomes should include student feedback. During the planning process and throughout the course, it is important to include the students in the learning process by asking what they expect to get out of the course and the best way to help them understand the material. By including the students, it fosters an atmosphere of trust and shows that you are there for them and you care about each individual student’s ability to learn and retain the subject matter.

Assessment Tools

Assessment tools should be put into place to determine if learning outcomes are being met. Assessment tools can be the test of assignments given. Based on grades and the ability to understand the assignments given, the teacher can determine if each student understands the course material. In addition, the teacher can gauge student response. Are students open minded and expressing enthusiasm for knowledge, are they exhibiting a diligence to tackle the subject matter and integrate good work habits? Are the students open to new thoughts and concepts and are they able to change their way of thinking and reach realistic goals?

If learning outcomes are not met, teachers must be able to adapt and change the teaching plan. If an individual student is having difficulty, the plan must include ways to get them help through further instruction or tutoring. If there seems to be a collective confusion about the course then a new plan must be devised, a plan that is clear and helps to foster a strong learning ethic among the students.

Positive learning outcomes are what teaching is about. Good teachers want to ensure that each student walks away from their course with a strong understanding of the materials taught and the confidence that each student will retain that information throughout their lives and careers. A strong leadership curriculum, teaching plan, and the ability to adapt to each student’s needs are evidence of a strong instructor.