Concept-Based Learning

Written By Colēgia

Finding new ways to learn is incredibly helpful because of its ability to promote different perspectives. Concept-based learning is one such way to do so. Today we want to do a deep dive and see what concept-based learning is all about.

What is Concept-Based Learning?

One defining feature with this learning style is that instead of focusing on subject-specific content, it is more concerned with the big picture for ideas. This emphasizes the importance of seeing things from a wide lens and more at the macro level than closely. This type of learning is can foster skills such as categorization along with seeing the structure of ideas. It teaches us that there is value in looking at things from a broader perspective. While the individual subject matter is prone to change, the concepts and overarching structure behind them rarely do. This type of framework can be helpful as it serves as a foundation to work with for more in-depth topics. The true benefit to concept-based learning is that it thrives in its flexibility. Our minds are malleable in that we are capable of adapting to new ideas on the fly and being able to have a framework to use can make all the difference.

“One defining feature with this learning style is that instead of focusing on subject-specific content, it is more concerned with the big picture for ideas.”

What About Content-Based Learning?

While concept-based learning is extremely helpful, understanding content-based learning can be just as useful. Some topics require diving deep into them which is common for many courses. Education courses feature the most prominent use of content-based learning. The specific nature of content can be used in a manner that motivates and empowers students. One common area that content-based learning is used is specifically within language. Given how complex the subject is, looking at it closely and examining ideas one by one can be useful. Content-based learning allows for fun exercises to be implemented such as flashcards, along with video content. These are good because they stimulate our minds in different ways that can foster other skills such as concentration and focus.

“One common area that content-based learning is used is specifically within language.”

Why we Need Both

Being able to see the big picture and the specifics can give us a more holistic and balanced view on what we learn. There are some concepts that work well in a theoretical setting but are much harder to implement in person. Likewise some of the content we learn about is not limited to just the area that it was initially learned in. It can apply to other areas of our education as well. Like most things, we want to have a balance of both along with knowing when to prioritize one over the other. A philosophy class for example can help more on the concept side of things whereas a language course may need the content approach more often. While these are just some of the ways these approaches can help, more often than not we will have to use our best judgment. Being flexible with our thoughts can make the difference in our enjoyment in education.

Colēgia

Colēgia

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