This is a book for all teachers on their central professional task of understanding and deploying skillfully a range of teaching modes and strategies in order to promote successful learning.

It provides a balanced exploration of practical teaching strategies and offers clear ideas that are supported by practical experience, research evidence and theory. Examples are given of teaching in a range of educational settings, and of issues teachers face in modern teaching roles. This book is comprehensive, balanced, open-minded and up-to-date, and informed by an awareness of international developments in the profession.

Effective Teaching and Learning in Practice is a book for all students in initial teacher education. Its insights, ideas and practical advice should also prove valuable to serving teachers and especially those undertaking further professional development. It is intended for anyone who takes seriously the understanding of modern ideas, research and developments in teaching and learning, and who is committed to becoming professionally skilled in the range of roles now required of teachers.

It enables teachers to develop professional judgement based on good theoretical understanding, awareness of research findings and considered reflections on practice.

Part 1: Introduction

1. Perspectives on education and teaching
2. Conceptions of effective teaching and learning
   Part 2: The Four Modes of Teaching and Learning
3. Direct teaching
4. Teaching through dialogue and discussion
5. Learning through action and experience
6. Learning through enquiry
   Part 3: Using These Modes in Practice –Wider Issues
7. Whole class, group and individualised teaching
8. Cross-disciplinary learning and thinking skills
9. Information technology, teaching and learning
   Part 4: Background Theory
10. Understanding and developing pedagogy
11. Brain science, cognitive psychology and teaching
    Part 5: How to be Reflective
12. Researching and developing teaching

Don Skinner is Academic Coordinator for Education Courses at the University of Edinburgh. He is also a Senior Lecturer and Deputy Head of the Department of Educational Studies.