Learning materials are the tools and resources that can help acquire knowledge and skills. These resources can range from traditional textbooks to digital platforms, each appealing to diverse modes and styles of learning.
Important Categories of Learning Tools
Textbooks:
Foundational Texts: Middle of the road introductions to a subject, often the textbook on which a course will be built
Citations: Provide on-depth analysis, detailed examples and more information on a specific subject.
Digital Resources:
E-books: Digital versions of the textbook, often with highlighting and note-taking features as well as search functionality.
Online Courses: Comprehensive courses that are delivered online and can include elements such as video lectures, quizzes, and discussion forums.
Educational Websites / Blogs: They provide a large amount of information, articles, tutorials and interactive tools.
Virtual Libraries: Access to thousands of journals, books and other research papers
Mobile Apps: great for learning on the go, flash cards, practicing your language, etc.
Physical Materials:
Workbooks and Practice Sheets: Help assimilate by doing and solving problems.
Flashcards — For quick memorisation
Notebooks and planners: To guide your thoughts, ideas, schedules — a must-have!
Selecting Appropriate Materials for Learning
When choosing materials to teach, ask yourself the following questions:
Relevance: Make sure the materials are relevant to your goals and syllabus.
Learning Style: Use materials that match your learning style (visual, auditory, kinesthetic).
Simplicity: Choose resources that communicate concepts in a straightforward manner and do not overcomplicate the material.
Interactiveness: Choose materials that promote active learning, like quizzes, simulations and discussions.
Availability: Reflect on issues like price, geographical reach and whether print or digital.
Using Learning Materials Effectively
Active Learning: Write notes, paraphrase and summarize, and ask questions.
Utilization of Time: Make a timetable giving time to various subjects and also topics.
