Question why should a teacher use a variety of teaching strategies... beside the fact that each child has a different style of learning
Answer Hi Alicia,
Learning processes depend on the individual properties of learners like age, level of experience, knowledge and interest which usally span a wide range. Thus, there is no best teaching strategy that applies to every learning situation. In fact, even for a single learner the best strategy may change over time.
Variety is the spice of life, same dictum applies to teaching. The same old repetitive method will add monotony to a teacher's and her students' too. Each teacher assembles teaching techniques in a unique constellation that reflects his or her teaching goals. Understanding how someone teaches is important in understanding his or her standards and the products of his or her teaching. In this case, assembling a portfolio is an opportunity for the individual to reflect on these methods and how they complement one's teaching goals, or philosophy. For example, lecture is a common default method of teaching. Sometimes it can be effective, but is it the most appropriate method for one's goals in all cases? How does one assess student achievement? Is it commensurate with one's aims, not just for what students "know," but also what they can do?
Theories of learning are important guides to teaching. What an individual has learned about how students learn, how they grow cognitively and emotionally, etc., is certainly an important asset. At the same time, one ought not to confuse descriptions of theories of learning (the object of research, discussion and consensus among scholars) as substitutes for clear thinking about one's own methods of teaching.
