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Do student-centred learning activities improve learning outcomes on a BTEC Applied Science course in FE?

Abstract This article provides quantitative evidence on the effect on learning outcomes of contrasting teaching styles applied to a class of Level 3 final-year students on a BTEC Applied Science course within a further education college in the UK. Two topics within a unit were taught using either a student-centred or teacher-centric (instructional) approach. Learning outcomes were monitored via tests aimed at both surface and deeper learning. Analysis showed that there was no significant difference between instructional or student-centred modes of teaching with respect to surface learning outcomes. However, analysis showed that a significant difference (p = 0.025) had occurred in deeper learning outcomes between the two modes of teaching. Interestingly, in this study, deeper learning was significantly improved after instructional teaching as opposed to student-centred teaching. Possible reasons for this are discussed and related to the role of instruction in vocational science education within FE. Preferences for teaching style were also obtained from the students via a survey and this indicated that PowerPoints were considered helpful whereas practical work and research tasks were very helpful to their learning.