(1.3) Teaching Methodologies — Pedagogy

Teaching methodology refers to the general principles, pedagogy and management strategies used for classroom instruction.

In the past, Nigerian education was Teacher-Centred (“Talk and Chalk” method).

However, modern TRCN standards emphasize Learner-Centered methods, where the student is an active participant.

Though the choice of method still depends on the nature of the subject, age of learners, class size, and the available instructional materials.

Study this note for the summary of the six pillars of modern teaching methodology.

1. Scaffolding strategies

Scaffolding is the temporary support provided to a student to help them master a new task within their Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD).

The Strategy

Use the “I Do, We Do, You Do” model.

The Goal

Gradual release of responsibility.

As the student gains competence, the teacher “fades” the support until the student is independent.

2. Teacher-Centred vs. Learner-Centred methods

TRCN advocates for a shift in the “locus of power” in the classroom.

Teacher-Centred

The teacher is the “Sage on the Stage”.

Efficient for large classes but often leads to passive learning (e.g., Formal Lecture).

 Learner-Centred

The teacher is the “Guide on the Side”.

Focuses on active participation, problem-solving, and critical thinking (e.g., Discovery Method, 5Es Model).

3. Cooperative and Inquiry-Based Learning

These are the “Active Learning” heavyweights.

Cooperative learning

Students work in mixed groups with individual accountability.

Key strategies include the Jigsaw Method and Think-Pair-Share.

Inquiry-based learning

Learning starts with a “trigger question” or problem.

Students investigate, create an explanation, and reflect on their findings.

4. Types of questions

Questions are the engine of classroom interaction, but note the following for effective usage.

• Balance Lower-Order (Recall) questions with Higher-Order (Analysis/Evaluation) questions.

• Use the “Pose-Pause-Pounce” method to increase Wait-Time and ensure all students are thinking, not just the ones with raised hands.

• Use Open-ended questions to spark discussion and Closed-ended questions for quick drills.

5. Effective and timely feedback

Feedback is the bridge that tells a student where they are and how to get to the goal.

• It must be specific, actionable and goal-oriented.

•  Use the Sandwich Method to Praise — Correct — Encourage.

• Immediate feedback is best for factual errors. Delayed feedback is better for complex creative tasks.

6. Multigrade teaching

In many Nigerian schools, one teacher handles multiple grades at once.

Use Common Themes (one topic for all) but Differentiated Tasks (assignments based on the specific grade level’s difficulty).

Leverage Peer Tutoring (older students helping younger ones) and Self-Directed Learning Centres to reduce workload.

Cheat Sheet tips

• Vygotsky: the father of Scaffolding and ZPD.

• Facilitator: the preferred professional role for a modern teacher.

•  Wait-Time: often 3–5 seconds. It improves the quality of student responses.

• Realia: the best instructional resource to support inquiry-based learning.