Full EMAC Review

Learning about learning: resources for supporting effective learning - Chris Watkins, Eileen Carnell, Caroline Lodge, Patsy Wagner and Caroline Whalley.

The content of the book / resource:
The book presents many examples of how to use a Do-Review-Learn-Apply approach – with adults and older pupils, and there are many examples of materials which can be used for reflective analysis of learning styles and approaches. The focus is to develop in teachers and learners a metacognitive approach.

Its effectiveness in catering for its target audience:
It assumes an initial interest. The authors are committed members of NAPCE [National Association for Pastoral Care in Education] and most teach on the M.A. in effective learning at London’s Institute for Education. The book reflects their commitment and interest, without much concession to a wider audience.

The value to the user:
It could be a useful source of selected activities, if copyright permission is clarified.

Its capacity to support pupils and / or teachers:
It offers a set of activities more likely to be used in ITT or CPD work, with their specific, though important, focus on learning styles, and processes.

Its particular strengths and any weaknesses:
It pulls together activities from a variety of sources, and is well-referenced. It does not include guidance, gleaned from the authors’ experience, on using the activities.

Readability, presentation and cost:
This is not an easy read. It presents points in abstract form, not illustrated by examples. The sections relate to audience – teacher and pupil and wider community. The book is expensive if photocopying permission is not readily available.

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