Adopting and Adapting

Revised Knowles Condition of Student Learning

Related Questions about Textbooks

1. The learners feel a need to learn

1. Does the textbook explicitly assess learner’s needs using a level-appropriate format?

2. Do the exercises or activities address the identified learners’ needs?

Does the textbook include clearly objectives for each unit or chapter so that learners are aware of outcomes?

2. The learning environment is characterized by physical comfort, freedom of expression, and acceptance of differences.

1. Is the textbook designed for student learners using appropriate visuals, topics, exercises and format?

2. Is authentic language used in the lesson content?

3. Does the textbook address cultural awareness?

4. Does the textbook progress at a comfortable pace?

5. Is there opportunity for open-ended conversation or unguided practice of language?

3. The learners perceive the goals of learning experience to be their goals.

1. Is there opportunity in the textbook to continually revisit learner’s goals that were identified initially?

2. Are the topics and themes in the textbook related to student’s needs and interests?

3. Is the learner asked to apply skills or knowledge in appropriate activities or exercises?

4. The learners participate actively in the learning process.

1. Does the textbook include a variety of activities that encourage interaction?

2. Does the textbook allow for communicative practice that asks learners to negotiate for meaning?

3. Does the textbook include level-appropriate questionnaires or activities that ask for learner opinion on lesson design, content, or visuals?

5. The learning process is related to and makes use of the experience of the learner.

1. Does the textbook include unit openers that elicit previous knowledge?

2. Does the textbook include opportunities for learners to apply content to their own lives?

6. The learners have a sense of progress toward their goals.

1. Does the textbook make sure of learning logs or checklists regarding skills learned?

2. Does the textbook allow for learner self-evaluation of performance of objectives?