The Benefits Of 'Old School' Teaching Methods

It can be expected for modern day teaching to revolve around more current modes of schooling, incorporating the use of technology  to encourage the desire to learn via more visual aids. However, the education system is one that spans many centuries and long-established teaching methods are continued to be used as an effective learning tool today.

1. Rote Learning. Arguably the most utilised method of learning is via repetition. Rote methods are based on the practise of exhaustive mental or oral repeating of information in order to memorise it.  It is frequently used to aid the memorisation of foundational knowledge like   multiplication tables and scientific formulae. Despite facing some discouragement from newer curriculum standards, which tend to be critical about simple memory-work replacing deep concept understanding, there is no shying away from its beneficial use when it comes to mastering the basics.  

2. Cursive Handwriting. The technique of cursive writing (also known as joined-up writing) is one that has been taught to pupils in their primary years of schooling for as long as anyone can remember. Conjoined writing is thought to make the practice of writing faster, making it an idealised form of penmanship.

 Cursive writing is most commonly taught using handwriting practice worksheets and aims to use shape tracing to teach a particular cursive style. Handwriting lessons can be pretty dull and pupils commonly struggle to stay focussed on the lesson. This can be easily counteracted by incorporating a reward on completion like the opportunity to create your own stampers in the form of personalised phrases with a cursive handwriting approach. And when they’re in situations where speedy note-taking is required, they’ll definitely thank you for it.

3. Argumentation.  The capability of structuring arguments to reach conclusions through logical reasoning is a trait that educators seek to develop in their students. This doesn’t just require the ability to argue, but also to examine information from different sources and see how it all fits together. Courses are designed to enhance critical thinking skills by presenting students with challenging reading material and engaging them in heated discussion. The sheer amount of information coming at students from all distractions makes this particular so-called ‘old school’ method relevant today, teaching them how to engage with the world around them and navigate differing viewpoints more easily.  Again, the positive effect that rewards can have on pupil ability is not something to be ignored. It would be a good idea to reward students who excel with the use of reward vouchers or achievement prizes.

Although more up-to-date teaching methods continue to surface, it is obvious that traditional approaches have not ceased to be used as effective tools for imparting knowledge.

What are your views on the benefits of 'old school' teaching methods? Comment below!