The changing demographics of the student population and the more consumer/client–centred
culture in today’s society have provided a climate where the use of student–centred learning is
thriving. The interpretation of the term ‘student–centred learning’ appears to vary between authors
as some equate it with ‘active learning’, while others take a more comprehensive definition
including: active learning, choice in learning, and the shift of power in the teacher–student relationship.
It is used very commonly in the literature and in University policy statements, but this
has not necessarily transferred into practice.
Student–centred learning is not without some criticism but in general it has been seen to be a
positive experience, for example, Edwards (2001) emphasises the value of student–centred learning:
‘Placing learners at the heart of the learning process and meeting their needs, is taken to a progressive
step in which learner–centred approaches mean that persons are able to learn what is relevant for them in
ways that are appropriate. Waste in human and educational resources is reduced as it suggested learners
no longer have to learn what they already know or can do, nor what they are uninterested in’. (Edwards
2001:37).
Although recognizing that it is not necessarily an easy task, it is hoped that this chapter has
gone some way to providing evidence and ideas to move you higher up the continuum towards
a more student–centred practice.