The station (rotation) model is an active learning strategy that is used to engage students in learning by dividing them into small groups and rotating them through a series of stations. Each station is focused on a different learning activity, such as problem-solving, group discussion, or hands-on experimentation. This allows students to learn at their own pace and in a way that is most effective for them.
Station Rotation Model: In the rear, you see the two women working in one station, preparing clustered material. In the front, in another station, three people are discussing a specific assignment.
Purpose and Intention
The station model is a learner-centered learning strategy that allows learners to actively engage with the material and learn at their own pace. It is based on the idea that students learn best when they are actively involved in the learning process.
Organisation
The station model typically involves dividing students into small groups of 3–5 learners. Each group then rotates through a series of stations, each of which is focused on a different learning activity. The stations can be set up in different areas of the classroom or even in different rooms.
Preparation
The station model requires some preparation work for the trainer. The instructor needs to create the stations and to develop the learning activities that will take place at each station. The trainer also needs to make sure that the stations are well-organized and that the materials are ready for use.
Implementation
Once the stations are set up and the materials are ready, the trainer can begin the station rotation. The instructor will typically give each group a set amount of time to spend at each station. After the allotted time is up, the groups will rotate to the next station. This process will continue until all the stations have been visited.
Possible evaluation strategy of the learning outcomes
One way is to have students complete a quiz or test at the end of the lesson. Another way is to have learners keep a journal of their learning experiences. The trainer can also observe the students during the station rotation and make note of their engagement and participation.
The role of rotation model in Flipped Learning
The station rotation model not only engages students by keeping them active, with its design constantly prompting students to move and switch between stations, but it also contrasts traditional lectures where students might be more passive in their learning approach. Moreover, it offers ample opportunities for differentiation. Within this model, educators can easily cater to the diverse needs of their students by grouping them either heterogeneously or homogeneously, and by customizing activities at each station according to varied ability levels.
Additionally, the model fosters a sense of collaboration and teamwork since it inherently demands students to work collectively, thereby enhancing their communication skills. Another noteworthy advantage is that it supports self-paced learning, permitting students to navigate through the stations at a pace they find most suitable. Furthermore, the station rotation model provides a plethora of assessment opportunities; teachers can monitor students during their activities, gather their assignments, or even administer quizzes to gauge their understanding.
Reason to use this approach
The station rotation model is a valuable approach to implementing active learning in the group space because it allows students to engage in different learning activities that are tailored to their individual needs and interests. This can help to keep students engaged and motivated, and it can also help them to learn more effectively.
The advantages and added value of having learners split into groups and work with parallel activities are differentiation, engagement in small groups, collaboration in the learning process, the need of jointly problem-solving, and retention. Additionally, in this model, the trainer can link several lessons from the Individual Space perfectly with the Group Learning Space.
- Differentiation
The station rotation model allows teachers to differentiate instruction by providing different activities for different groups of students. This can be done based on students’ learning styles, interests, or levels of understanding. - Engagement
The station rotation model can help to keep students engaged by providing them with a variety of activities to choose from. This can help to prevent boredom and off-task behaviour. - Collaboration
The station rotation model encourages collaboration between students as they work together at each station. This can help students to learn from each other and to develop their teamwork skills. - Problem-solving
The station rotation model can help students to develop their problem-solving skills as they work through the different activities. This can be a valuable skill for students to have in all areas of their lives. - Retention
The station rotation model can help students to retain information better as they are actively engaged in the learning process.