All You Need To Know About Teacher-Centred Vs. Student-Centred Learning

We all remember a few of our teachers more fondly than the rest. Why is that? Usually, it is because of the way that the teacher taught us and behaved with us. Teachers can use either of the two methods to teach: a student-centred or a teacher-centred approach. What is the difference between the two, and how do you decide which one to apply when you teach?

In this debate of student-centred learning vs. teacher-centred learning, do not forget the ultimate goal: maximise learning outcomes for students.

Let us discuss both approaches in detail to help you decide which one to adopt.

What is Teacher-Centred Learning?

The teacher-centred learning is the traditional method of teaching and puts the teacher in the forefront. When you use this method, you pass information to students by giving direct information via lectures, presentations, etc. Students learn passively and take exams and tests to show their understanding and learning. Such an approach is beneficial for introducing new topics and concepts to students and teaching them the basics of any subject.

The teacher-centred learning approach focuses mainly on the teacher, and there is generally one-way communication where the teacher talks and students just listen.

What is Student-Centred Learning?

So, in the teacher-centred approach, the teacher keeps talking, and students just listen or pretend to pay attention. But, in a student-centred learning approach, the students become actively involved in their own learning. The teacher is still the authority figure in the class, but there is more of a facilitator. This approach uses more activities, discussions, research, etc. to help students learn better. When students learn under a student-centred approach, they retain their learning for a much longer time.

There is more interaction between the teacher and students and among the classmates.

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Also Read: Teaching Methods to Improve Classroom Learning and Student Engagement

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Teacher-Centred Vs. Student-Centred Learning

Traditionally, only teacher-centred methods were used in schools, and students did learn and gain knowledge under that approach. In recent days, a more holistic approach has come into play. The student-centred method focuses on the learning needs of the students and attempts to enhance their overall development.

Find out which method between teacher-centred learning vs. student-centred learning will be more suitable for you with this pros and cons list:

Teacher-centred Learning: Pros & Cons

Pros of Teacher-Centred Learning:

• There is more order in class as the teacher is in complete control.
• There is a structured way of teaching, and this ensures all students learn the same things. No student is missed out.
• Teachers are able to cover larger portions in a shorter time.
• This method of direct instruction is useful when teaching fundamentals and basic concepts.

Cons of Teacher-Centred Learning:

• Student engagement and interaction are limited in teacher-centred learning.
• Students may get distracted or bored when just passively listening to their teacher.
• The teacher-centred method can encourage students to mug up content rather than develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Students who learn better through group discussions or activities may not be able to learn effectively under this approach.
• Students do not get a chance to develop their communication and collaborative skills.

Student-Centred Learning: Pros & Cons

Pros of Student-Centred Learning:

• Students are actively involved and engaged in the learning process with student-centred learning.
• Students are more motivated and encouraged to share their ideas and participate in the class.
• This approach helps students to think creatively, analyse information and have a problem-solving attitude.
• Students are able to learn at their own pace and in ways that they prefer.
• Student-centred learning helps students develop communication skills.

Cons of Student-Centred Learning:

• When teachers use a student-centred learning approach, it can become difficult to manage the classroom due to increased student activity and conversations.
• There is a chance that students miss out on some important information or concepts.
• Teachers have to spend more time planning the activities and conducting discussions in student-centred learning.
• This approach may not be suitable when teaching foundational concepts.

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Also Read: How Understanding-Centred Teaching Nurtures Lifelong Learners

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Let us understand the main difference between teacher-centred learning vs. student-centred learning.

Teacher-Centred Learning	Student-Centred Learning
The focus is mainly on the teacher.	The focus is on both the teacher and students.
The teacher only talks; students listen.	Students actively interact with each other and their teacher.
Students work alone.	Students work in groups or pairs, depending on the activity and topic.
The teacher constantly monitors everything the students do.	Students talk without constant monitoring; the teacher only gives feedback and solves doubts.
The teacher will select the topic to teach.	Students can have a choice of topics.
Only the teacher evaluates the students’ learning.	Both students and the teacher evaluate.
The classroom is very quiet.	The classroom is generally noisy.

 

 

Conclusion

Whether you use a teacher-centred learning approach or a student-centred learning approach, remember you have to do what is best for your students. You may often have to employ a mix of the two methods for the best results. In deciding between teacher-centred learning vs. student-centred learning, your instincts and experience will play a big role. The ultimate goal is to establish an educational environment that meets the unique requirements of every student and cultivates a lifelong love of learning.

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Last Updated on February 28, 2025