Teaching skills for teachers

SDL means Student Directed Learning or HOMEWORK.

When students begin learning BSL, the most common type of homework that is set is a visit to the deaf club. This isn’t always possible or feasible, nor does it meet the true aim of SDL, which is to encourage language learning outside of classroom.

In order for SDL to be successful, there are a number of key points that need to be considered, these are:

1. The teacher must know what the students need to focus on and practice in order for the SDL to be successful.
   
   
2. Decide whether SDL is going to be set as an individual task or group work. The advantages of individual tasks will encourage students to work at their own pace and time. The advantage of group work allows students to work together and share ideas but there is the issue of getting students all together as this may prove to be difficult.
   
   
3. When setting the SDL, the teacher must give clear directions as to what is expected of them. Writing the SDL down is important (i.e. on whiteboard or handout) so students understand fully what expected of them and have clear guidelines what to do for the following class.
   
   
4. SDL should be used as the next session/class warm-up exercise, or review exercise. It is vital to review SDL to ensure students can fill any gap in their knowledge base. If SDL is not reviewed, there is no motivation for students to complete and SDL becomes a pointless task.