Learning Environment
Numerous studies have found that the most successful individuals
understand and use a variety of strategies to assist and monitor their learning
and day-to-day functioning. In addition, successful learners can describe the
strategies they use and can describe whether or not particular strategies prove
useful in particular situations. This requires learners to be aware of how they
are learning; to self-evaluate and detect whether particular strategies are
working in certain situations; and to modify them accordingly.12
The following characteristics should be present in the learning
environment to increase the potential for success:
- A positive and supportive climate
- Minimal distractions
- Appropriate levels of structure and feedback
- The independent use of strategies
- A multi-sensory instructional approach.13
"At all times, support must be focused on the individual's circumstances and
specific goals and tailored to their unique pattern of strengths and
weaknesses." 14
Features of effective learning strategies
Strategies that are both effective and efficient share characteristics found in
the following three features:
- Content features - The steps in the strategy and what they are
designed to facilitate during the learning process.
- Design features - How the steps are put together to facilitate
learning and future use of the strategy.
- Usefulness feature - The potential transferability of the strategy to
everyday needs.
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