Planned Learning

You don’t need to develop planned learning habits only in the classroom or when your teachers are constantly monitoring you. You can do it for yourself, within your own time and comfort. It is all about knowing your target and being willing to put in all the effort that it takes to reach that result. 

This part of active learning focuses on the power of planning. With a proper plan, you can achieve even the most challenging objective. You will explore the true meaning of planned learning. You will also learn about its different types and practical tips to apply them. These strategies will assist you in managing the difficulties of your learning journey.

What is planned learning? 

Planned learning is an intentional method of learning designed to gain knowledge and keep a specific target in mind. As the term suggests, it involves a clear plan. It includes specific learning outcomes and what each session will cover to support student progress. The method focuses entirely on the students. It looks at whether they are actively engaging with the curriculum. Based on this, teachers give feedback to each student. This feedback allows them to grow and is an essential part of the study.

Teachers who use this style design their lessons based on curriculum purpose, learning results, and evaluation methods. They do not teach on the spot. Instead, they take time before class to understand the topic and learn how to deliver it. Those who are prepared can respond to questions with confidence. As a result, students will realise that their teachers understand what they are doing in the learning process.

All in all, planned learning is a two-way street. To make it effective, both the educator and the learners must play their roles. If one side falls behind, it can lead to an imbalance. This is contrary to the concept of structured learning since it is supposed to assist the students to remain organised and be in control of their development.

Types of planned learning activities

Planned learning does not just mean following a single pattern, method, or structure. It may be carried out in numerous ways. It may be based on the needs, goals, and learning style of the students. The objective of these activities is to provide a structure, direction, and purpose to the study curriculum.

In brief, there are different types of planned learning activities. For instance, timetables let students manage their time effectively. Checklists can be used to set weekly or monthly learning goals. Planning can reduce stress and improve focus. Revision schedules ensure that students allocate time to revisit already learned content. Finally, journals allow learners to reflect on their study. Here’s the breakdown:

Timetable - study sessions

A timetable in planned learning is a schedule that indicates when you are going to revise or practise various subjects. It makes you develop a study habit and prevents last-minute pressure. An effective schedule will allow you to study according to the plan, organise your time, and maintain focus. It also provides you with frequent breaks, which enhance memory and school performance in general.

Checklists

To make a checklist, you write down all your targets in a sequence for a week or a month. Once you start achieving them, you tick them off one by one. This lets you have something to look forward to. Checklists also keep you responsible and allow you to see your progress. 

Planning

While working on a planned learning, it's better to break up difficult tasks into small ones. This will make the work easier and reduce stress. You will be able to organise your studies, make realistic deadlines, and see your progress faster. A clear learning style makes you focused and motivated to achieve goals.

Revision schedules

The revision schedule is the time that you set aside before the actual exam. This lets you go through what you have learnt. Moreover, make sure not to touch any new concepts. This is because you just need to learn and memorise what you have studied. 

Journals

After doing a planned learning, always keep a journal beside you. It allows you to log down your thoughts after you learn something new. This builds self-awareness and also helps you adjust your learning strategies in the future. In the end, you will improve yourself and perform better at school. 

Tips to carry out planned learning for students 

To start planned learning, you don’t need complex methods or difficult tools. You can begin with simple steps in your daily routine. Over time, these small actions will allow you build lasting habits. Below are a few tips that will assist you in conducting organised learning: 

• Set clear targets: Whenever you begin anything, have a clear end in mind of what you want to achieve. It can be motivations like getting higher marks, mastering a topic, or simply finishing a project on time. This will help you stay motivated and actively engaged throughout your journey. 
• Create a reasonable schedule: Don’t plan tasks that are difficult to achieve in the beginning. You can create small but manageable activities that will give you a sense of confidence when you slowly achieve them. Also, don’t forget to add appropriate breaks and time to relax. 
• Focus more on your weaker areas: Don’t spend more time on what you are already good at. Instead, try to manage your time wisely. This allows you to spend more time on the areas that need extra attention and focus. Planned learning can support you with this. It gives you a clear idea of how much time to spend on each part of your study.
• Always stay flexible: There will be times when things don’t go as planned. However, that’s okay because not everything is under your control. Planned learning does not guarantee that everything will be perfect; it means that you have a strong push to move forward whenever you are stuck.