Stationenlernens

Stationenlernen is a didactic approach in which learning content is organized into a number of stations that learners visit, spending a fixed amount of time at each station. It is used across subjects and levels and emphasizes active, student-centered learning, differentiation, collaboration, and formative assessment. The method can complement or replace parts of traditional whole-class instruction.

The structure involves breaking a topic into stations, each with specific tasks, materials, and success criteria. Tasks may include experiments, problem solving, reading, multimedia analysis, or discussion prompts. Students work in small groups or individually, rotating through stations according to a schedule. A teacher or designated facilitator monitors progress, provides guidance, and ensures that learning objectives are met.

Roles and assessment: The teacher acts as facilitator and observer, offering feedback and intervention as needed. Stations include clear instructions and checklists or rubrics for self- and peer-assessment. Differentiation can be built in through varied tasks or levels of challenge. Assessment is often formative, based on performance at stations and a concluding debrief.

Implementation: Start with clear objectives, design aligned stations, prepare materials, and create a rotation timetable. Establish norms for transitions and introduce the approach to students. Run a pilot, collect feedback, and adjust. End with a debrief to consolidate learning and document outcomes for planning.

Benefits and challenges: Benefits include higher engagement, learner autonomy, collaboration, and adaptability to diverse needs. Challenges involve substantial planning time, classroom space and material management, and ensuring equity and alignment with curricula.