Teaching for how students learn: A model of learning and teaching

This model links elements of student learning processes to associated teaching practices in 4 key areas: 

1. To align with the evidence that learning is a change in long-term memory, teachers develop a teaching and learning plan for the knowledge students will acquire. 
2. To align with the evidence that students process limited amounts of new information, teachers manage the cognitive load of learning tasks. 
3. To align with the evidence on how students develop and demonstrate mastery, teachers maximise retention, consolidation and application of learning. 
4. To align with the evidence that students are actively engaged when learning, teachers foster the conditions of a learning-focused environment. 

This fourth essential element wraps around the other elements of the model, recognising that: 

• engagement and learning have a reciprocal relationship 
• students learn best in safe and supportive learning environments. 

The model recognises that:  

• all students benefit from evidence-based practices that align with the mechanisms of memory that allow for acquiring, retaining, retrieving and consolidating learning 
• the frequency, intensity and duration of scaffolding and guidance provided may differ to meet students’ needs. 

This model aligns with Australian Professional Standards for Teachers 1.2: Understand how students learn. Teachers at all career stages can use this model and the related overview of how students learn to affirm, extend or improve their current practice by: 

• developing their understanding and use of research into how students learn 
• reviewing the structure of their teaching programs using research evidence 
• evaluating the effectiveness of teaching practices in their schools to identify opportunities to have a greater impact for all of their students. 

Leaders can also use this paper to develop a common language and shared understanding of how students learn, and to ensure policies and programs are aligned with this evidence to maximise learning for all students.