Mastery Learning

At Ljubljana International School, we use the Mastery Learning Model of instruction. Mastery learning is a research-based teaching and learning strategy that focuses on ensuring students fully comprehend a specific topic or skill before moving on to more advanced material. The main goal is to ensure that every student achieves a deep understanding and proficiency in the subject matter, rather than just meeting a certain time-based requirement.

Mastery learning operates with several key principles that aim to optimize a student’s learning experience. In a mastery learning setting, students are granted the freedom to progress at their own pace, allowing them to dedicate more time to a topic until they have demonstrated mastery before moving on to the next concept. Teachers employ formative assessment techniques throughout the learning process to continuously evaluate students’ understanding, identifying areas of strength and weakness to tailor instruction accordingly.

When a student faces challenges with a specific concept or skill, mastery learning offers targeted remediation and support. This could involve providing additional resources, one-on-one guidance, or extra practice to help the student master the difficult material. The approach has been associated with higher levels of achievement among students, as it emphasizes establishing a strong foundation in fundamental concepts that facilitates comprehension of more complex topics.

Moreover, mastery learning contributes to the development of increased self-confidence among students as they experience success in mastering each concept. This positive reinforcement acts as a powerful motivator for continued learning. Additionally, mastery learning has the potential to narrow achievement gaps between students with varying learning abilities. By accommodating individual learning styles and pacing, the approach ensures that all students have the opportunity to succeed.

In the context of Mastery learning, continual progress tracking supersedes traditional grading systems. This focus on mastery, rather than mere letter grades, allows parents and teachers to monitor a student’s progress more accurately. Consequently, they can readily identify areas that may require improvement and celebrate the student’s achievements along the way.

Incorporating Mastery learning into a child’s education can yield several benefits, including a deeper understanding of subjects, enhanced self-confidence, and a more positive overall learning experience. To maximize these advantages, collaboration between parents, teachers, and students is crucial. By working closely with teachers and ensuring that their unique needs are met with appropriate support and resources, students can thrive academically and foster a lifelong love for learning.