3 tips for encouraging self-regulated learning in class

Teacher support is essential to successful class education, but instructors should also encourage kids to practice self-regulated learning. This method of learning encourages students to monitor and evaluate their own abilities so they can have more control over the learning process. A study published in the journal PLOS ONE found evidence that suggests self-regulated learning in elementary education can help students improve Common Core learning. The results of the study revealed improvements in reading, mathematics and vocabulary at the end of kindergarten that lead into the first grade. Helping kids develop these skills can seem complicated, but there are a few methods instructors can utilize to get students to practice self-regulation.

1. Modeling
Young kids are very impressionable, so it's important that teachers demonstrate appropriate behavior during class activities. Modeling certain mannerisms for students is one method for developing a child's self-regulated learning. An instructor can do this, for instance, by effectively listening and responding to a class's questions, therefore showing kids how they should be interacting with other people. The National Association for the Education of Young Children also mentions that when nervous children ask other students to play, they are working on regulating emotions and behaviors, despite feeling uncomfortable. Instructors can encourage this self-management by showing kids how to handle similar situations.

2. Journaling
Assigning kids a journal is a way to stimulate self-reflection of activities and behaviors. One option for using these notebooks is to have kids contemplate an entry after a recent assignment. Ask them to jot down how they think the homework went, what they did well and where they need improvement. Then, have them make a couple of notes at the end about how they can solve the issues they struggled with in the future. This will help kids improve their self-regulated learning skills because they'll become more aware of their weaknesses and make plans for improving them.

3. Withdrawing support
It's important not to offer too much help to a child who is struggling. Try waiting until they come to you for assistance instead. Allowing students to approach you when they need help creates more autonomy for kids because they have to determine when they aren't making progress and purposefully seek out guidance. Although you are allowing the kids to make their own decisions, be sure to continue monitoring their activities, especially if they're in a younger grade, like kindergarten. 

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