L2L in FE Aims and Research Themes
The aims of the Learning to Learn in FE project are to work in conjunction with the Learning to Learn in Schools Phase 4 Project:
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To develop understanding of progression in learning to learn – knowledge, skills, dispositions and the development of learners’ autonomy
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To further understand the role of enquiry in teachers’ and students’ learning
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To develop the role of an Higher Education Institution as a co-learner in this process and supporting schools/ colleges in networks
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To look at the potential influence of the family and the community on the development of pupils as lifelong learners
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To look at the relative importance of different learning to learn approaches in raising standards.
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To investigate the potential of L2L approaches in raising achievement across the academic ability range, and in particular in inclusion and learner support.
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To understand any differential impact on the learning of distinct groups of learners.
Key research themes
Engaging in and with research: there is a range of information about existing research and knowledge about teaching and learning which teachers can engage with and apply to their own professional context; the individual action research projects which the teachers undertake also contribute to this knowledge base.
Developing a language for learning: through collaborative learning approaches and the development of more effective feedback in lessons, pedagogical tools for learning and enquiry and investigating its impact on attainment, attitudes and autonomy.
Innovation and change: Comparison of new L2L schools with Phase 3 schools – teacher and student views; learning biographies; students’ metacognitive knowledge and skills; the role of tools in enquiry; impact on attainment and achievement - looking at replicability and transferability of research findings.
Exploring the role of technology: in supporting learning through enquiry, particularly to support reflection and action (e.g. use of video; weblogs; podcasting; e-portfolios) of students, teachers and researchers.
The world beyond the school gate: exploration of how better relationships with parents can be developed; how communication about children’s learning can be increased; potential benefits of home/school partnerships.
Structure of the Project
The two year project will draw on the successful model developed in the L2L in Schools project with local INSET for college staff, national residentials, and national and regional conferences to disseminate and validate the research as it progresses. As with the schools project we will us a teacher-led professional enquiry (action research) within an overarching framework determined by the Campaign informed and supported by the HEI research team.