WHAT IS CLIENT CENTRED LEARNING AND WHAT HAS IT GOT TO DO WITH YOUR DRIVING LESSONS?

At its simplest, this means we listen to you to find out how you like to learn best, the things that are getting in the way of your progress and how we can help.

People learn to drive in different ways and at different speeds. If someone who likes time to reflect on their learning is forced to move on to the next thing too quickly it can slow down their progress. Similarly, if someone who likes to learn by trying things out is made to watch too many demonstrations, without having a go, they may get frustrated.
Client centred learning is an approach to learning that takes into account how the pupil prefers to learn. When people learn in this way they are more likely to retain information and skills. People are also more likely to keep learning if they are encouraged to take responsibility for their learning at an early stage – this is the second aim of client centred learning.

Client centred learning is an approach that’s being used increasingly in the driving tuition industry. It’s a way of teaching learner drivers that puts the focus on the pupil, as the following core principles show:

• Actively listen to what your pupil is telling you is getting in the way of their learning, so you’ll be well-equipped to help them achieve their learning goals.
• Work together with your pupil to help them to set their own goals to learn and develop practical skills and knowledge via experience based learning.
• Show your pupils trust and respect that they’re trying to be constructive and find solutions. Your pupils will be much more likely to take your advice and guidance if you accept and respect who they are.
• Encourage your pupils to self-evaluate their progress and become a more responsible and safe driver.

The greater the use of client centred learning, the more effective your instruction is likely to be.