Learning Centers
...es sources of information…” (p.74)” (Pattillo 14). In order for learning centers to be implemented most effectively, they must be supported by a certain “philosophy of education- a commitment to individualized, self-directed, and individually constructed knowledge” (Pattillo 15). Instructors who advocate John Dewey’s educational philosophies concerning the importance of active, exploratory, and relevant study for children, will find that learning centers are wonderful vehicles that support this kind of learning. “A learning center is a defined space where materials are organized in such a way that children learn without the teacher’s constant presence and direction” (Pattillo 13). While the concepts that children work with in learning centers are those previously introduced in whole-group lessons, the activity taking place in the learning centers should be child-directed. Learning centers designed with literacy development in mind are ideal places to practice those reading skills and strategies previously introduced to the class as a whole (Wait ix). Although the teacher chooses the content matter of the learning centers’ activities, the children should be allowed to choose their activities, and when appropriate, even the time spent on these (nces.ed.gov). An array of appropriate activities and a variety of materials should be provided, such that multiple intelligences, various learning styles, and different skill levels are accommodated. (Wait ix) In this way, children are meant to feel competent and motivated to complete the tasks at hand, and little teacher intervention in center activity is required. (Wait 10) That learning centers are child-directed also fosters children’s developing sense of autonomy. The development of autonomy, “according to Piaget, should be the goal of education” (Pattillo 12). In learning centers, children “assume responsibility for learning; they practice freedom within limits” (Pattillo 12). The independent learning and decision making involved in children’s engaging in learning center activities also strengthens children’s self-concept. Another important aspect of learning centers is that they are hands-on. Hands-on activities are important for constructing knowledge. “Considerable research shows that active engagement in learning may lead to better retention, understanding, and active use of knowledge” (Ryan 229). Hands-on activities also allow opportunity for primary graders to practice their still-developing motor skills. Elementary ...