(1.1) Foundations of Learning — Pedagogy

This is a pillar of pedagogy that shares the “Why,” “Who,” and “How” of teaching within the Nigerian context.

Study this note on foundations of learning for a breakdown of the seven essential areas you need to know under pedagogy ahead of your TRCN exam.

1. Learning theories

Teaching is grounded in three main psychological schools of thought.

Behaviourism

(B.F. Skinner and Ivan Pavlov)

It focuses on observable behaviour and the use of reinforcement (rewards) and punishment to shape learning.

Cognitivism

(Jean Piaget and Jerome Bruner)

It views the mind as an information processor while emphasizing “meaningful learning” and moving from known to unknown.

Constructivism

(Lev Vygotsky and John Dewey)

It asserts that learners “build” their own knowledge with the key concept is Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD).

ZPD is the gap between what a student can do alone versus what they can do with help.

2. Developmental stages of the learner

Effective teachers match their instruction to the student’s age and maturity.

Piaget’s Stages

From the Sensorimotor (infancy) and Pre-operational (nursery) to Concrete Operational (primary) and Formal Operational (secondary) where abstract thinking begins.

Erikson’s Psychosocial Theory

Focuses on crises like Industry vs. Inferiority (Primary schoolers wanting to feel capable) and Identity vs. Role Confusion (Adolescents seeking self-identity).

3. Factors affecting learning

Learning is influenced by internal and external variables.

Psychological

Motivation (Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic) and Attitude.

Physiological

• Health
• Nutrition
• Age

Environmental

Home background, socio-economic status, and classroom conditions (heat, noise, overcrowding).

4. Contextualisation of learning

This is the “Nigerianization” of the curriculum.

It involves:

• linking topics to the student’s immediate environment

•  using local examples (e.g., teaching “Trade” using a local market scenario)

Improvisation

This means creating teaching aids from locally available materials when standard equipment is missing.

5. Social Reconstructionism

This philosophy views the school as an agent of social change.

In Nigeria, this means:

• using education to solve national problems like corruption, tribalism, and poverty.

• promoting National Integration and active citizenship.

• teaching students to be critical thinkers who can improve their communities.

6. Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

Teachers must manage their own emotions to manage a classroom.

SEL competencies

• Self-awareness
• Self-management
• Empathy

Effective communication

Using Assertive (not aggressive) tones and Active listening.

Emotional Intelligence (EQ)

The ability to handle stress and build a positive rapport with students.

7. NPE, NTP, and TRCN Act

Every Nigerian teacher is governed by these legal pillars.

NPE (2014)

Establishes the 9-3-4 system and the language policy (teaching in the mother tongue in early primary).

TRCN Act (CAP T3)

This law makes it a criminal offense to teach without a license and also established the Teachers Tribunal.

National Teacher Policy (NTP)

Focuses on teacher recruitment, welfare, and career paths.