USING MATERIAL
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In the field of education, TLM is a commonly used acronym that stands for
"teaching/learning materials." Broadly, the term refers to a spectrum of educational
materials that teachers use in the classroom to support specific learning objectives, as
set out in lesson plans. These can be games, videos, flashcards, project supplies, and
more.
Classroom teaching that uses only a teacher lecturing the class, perhaps writing on the
chalkboard or whiteboard, is the classic example of not using any TLM.
Activity-based learning employs a variety of teaching/learning materials and focus on
student interaction to learn new concepts. Context-specific learning materials enhance
the process.
"Teaching materials" is a generic term used to describe the resources teachers use to
deliver instruction. Teaching materials can support student learning and increase student
success. Ideally, the teaching materials will be tailored to the content in which they're
being used, to the students in whose class they are being used, and the teacher. Teaching
materials come in many shapes and sizes, but they all have in common the ability to
support student learning.
Examples
Teaching materials can refer to a number of teacher resources; however, the term usually
refers to concrete examples, such as worksheets or manipulatives (learning tools or
games that students
can handle to help them gain and practice facility with new
knowledge -- e.g. counting blocks). Teaching materials are different from teaching
"resources," the latter including more theoretical and intangible elements, such as essays
or
support
from
other
educators,
or
places
to
find
teaching
materials.
Learning materials are important because they can significantly increase student
achievement by supporting student learning. For example, a worksheet may provide a
student with important opportunities to practice a new skill gained in class. This process
aids in the learning process by allowing the student to explore the knowledge
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