Supporting Successful Learning in Primary School from FutureLearn

Week 1: You and others Week 2: How people learn Week 3: The environment for learning Week 4: Communication, language and literacy Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more This course is for teaching assistants and support staff in early years and primary school. It will also be of interest to teachers returning to work, newly qualified teachers, as well as providing a refresher for current teachers. Parents of children in schools may also find this course useful in helping them to support and encourage their children’s learning. This course focusses on teaching and learning in primary schools. If you work in a secondary school, you may like to join: Supporting Successful Learning in Secondary Schools . You can use the hashtag #FLprimarylearning to talk about this course on social media.

Topics Covered

An introduction to values, beliefs and attitudes
Understanding the unconscious
Looking at your own biases and reflecting upon them
Reflecting on your own values
An introduction to how people learn
Exploring a child’s view of their environment through their eyes, as well as hearing about their world views
Looking at the expectations we have of children
Building on what children know and what they should know
An introduction to the learning environment and what consists of
Exploring misconceptions about managing a classroom and finding out what teaching is like in reality
Introduction of student behaviour through a case study: The sofa
Understanding the psychology behind primary and secondary behaviours
Introduction to aspects of communication within teaching
Learners to take part in activities that include communicating and listening
Exploring the importance of asking the right question
Share examples of good practice
How to plan effective questions for the classroom

Reviews summary

Practical support for primary learning

According to learners, this course offers practical support and a solid foundation for anyone involved in primary school education. Many found the content on communication, learning environments, and child psychology to be highly insightful. Students appreciated the engaging lectures and relevant case studies. While broadly beneficial, some experienced educators noted that certain sections might feel introductory. Overall, it's considered very helpful for teaching assistants, new teachers, and parents alike.

Offers a strong base, but may be basic for experienced learners.

"Some parts felt a bit basic for me, but overall very helpful."

"Good for beginners or those needing a refresher, but perhaps less challenging for experienced educators."

"I found some of the material repetitive and not as in-depth as I hoped; good introductory."