The Process of Learning and Teaching


Sabria Ali M. Ali
Duhok Polytechnic University

The process of learning and teaching aims to provide students with learning experiences to achieve specific goals. It involves interaction between the student and the teacher, encompassing the subject matter, teaching methods, and educational tools used. This process is organized with clear objectives, often external, while learning occurs within the individual. The goals of the learning process may not always be fully achieved, even if the teaching process is conducted, as learning can be influenced by factors such as the teacher, teaching methods, and the learning environment.

The learning and teaching process consists of two main components:

  1. The teaching process: Conducted by the teacher, who acts as a guide and facilitator responsible for effective teaching to ease student learning.
  2. The learning process: Involves changes in the student's behavior during the learning and teaching process, which is the core of education.

The teaching process affects the learning process, and the latter is a result of the former, responding and interacting with it. For instance, a teacher cannot plan a specific teaching unit without understanding how students learn, the nature of learning, and the associated concepts and theories. Similarly, learning cannot occur without appropriate teaching tools to convey the material. These two processes are inseparable due to their mutual relationship, making it an interactive and integrated process involving key elements:

  • The teacher or instructor: The guide and facilitator of the educational process.
  • The learner: The focus of the educational process.
  • The educational environment: The place and tools used for education.
  • Educational goals: The intended outcomes.

Nature of the Teaching Process

The teaching process can be viewed from multiple perspectives, such as the teacher, student, subject matter, and teaching methods. It is a planned activity aimed at making the student learn or change their behavior towards specific goals. The teaching process contributes to changes in performance and occurs within educational institutions like classrooms and lecture halls. The primary purpose of teaching is to help students learn the subject matter to achieve specific objectives.

This definition includes three main points:

  1. A planned activity.
  2. The purpose or intent of this activity.
  3. The interaction resulting from this activity.

Planning and implementing any teaching activity depends largely on the teacher's knowledge of different learning conditions, student abilities, prior knowledge, and how to guide students through learning. While some educators differentiate between "teaching" and "instruction," many believe they refer to the same process.

Nature of the Learning Process

The learning process is complex and represents one of the most significant challenges in education. Learning is defined as the process through which an individual acquires new experiences that affect and change their behavior. For example, learning to read involves acquiring the skill that enables reading. Learning is an ongoing process of developing capabilities and knowledge.

Psychologists assert that the learning process occurs in two basic stages:

  1. The achievement stage: Where the task is completed.
  2. The retention stage: Where the person remembers how the task was completed.

Learning is genuine when there are indications of development and improvement, reaching goals more efficiently, better, and faster the second time. Teachers must ensure that students have truly learned the lesson, as introducing new topics without confirming prior understanding can negatively impact performance.

This analysis has led to new curriculum trends, such as goal-based and skill-based curricula. Learning results from experiences and interactions with the environment and can occur at any time and place through life's interactions. Thus, learning is one of the ultimate goals of the educational process.

Difference Between Learning and Teaching

Many people confuse learning and teaching due to their close connection, despite clear differences. Learning is a continuous process that begins at birth and lasts throughout life, occurring both intentionally and unintentionally. It involves acquiring experiences at any time and place. In contrast, teaching is a systematic process carried out by an individual to help others acquire necessary experiences and skills within a specific timeframe.

Examples to Clarify the Difference:

  • Learning Process:
    • Listening to lessons as a student.
    • Changing routes based on previous experiences.
    • Reflecting on misunderstandings with friends.
    • Avoiding touching hot objects after getting hurt.
    • Taking driving lessons.
  • Teaching Process:
    • Teaching students in a classroom.
    • Training individuals in any skill.
    • Parents teaching their children morals and values.

Key Characteristics of Learning:

  • Continuous and lifelong process.
  • Occurs in both humans and animals.
  • Evolves with societal engagement.
  • Foundation of survival, development, and progress.

Key Characteristics of Teaching:

  • Primary source of knowledge and life skills.
  • Evolves with societal changes and technology.
  • Influences thinking and problem-solving.
  • Foundation of excellence and development.

Characteristics of the Learner:

  • Intrinsic motivation to learn.
  • Need for respect and recognition.
  • Desire for direct benefits from learning.
  • Accumulated prior experiences.
  • Influenced by environmental and genetic factors.

Basics of Education (Teaching):

Teachers must possess both scientific knowledge and practical experience in their subject areas. They should effectively convey knowledge and ensure it is transferred from short-term to long-term memory. Fundamental principles of teaching include:

  • Clear and specific teaching objectives.
  • Relevant and useful material.
  • Organized and sequential content.
  • Appropriate methods and teaching aids.
  • Active student participation.
  • Continuous monitoring of student progress.
  • Mastery of previous material.

The Learning Process:

Learning is a shared responsibility between teachers and students. Teachers must create conducive learning environments and motivate students, while students must demonstrate the effort and desire to learn. Factors that facilitate learning include:

  • Awareness of the impact of learning.
  • Using competition as motivation.
  • Awareness of progress.
  • Reward and encouragement over punishment.
  • Curiosity and surprise.
  • Active participation in classroom activities.
  • Providing suitable learning environments.

The Relationship Between Learning and Teaching Methods:

Teaching methods are the channels through which teachers deliver their messages to students. Teachers must understand psychological aspects of learning to select appropriate methods. Regardless of the method, it should be supported by visual aids to enhance learning. Effective teaching provides the greatest amount of learning within a specified period.