Contextualized Teaching and Learning
What is Contextualized Teaching and Learning (CTL)?
Contextualized Teaching and Learning (CTL) engages students in active learning while assisting them to make meaning out of the information they are obtaining. Contextualized instruction links the learning of foundational skills with academic or occupational content by focusing teaching and learning squarely on concrete applications in a specific context that is of interest to the student.
Many people learn better and faster, and retain information longer, when they are taught concepts in context.
Why use Contextualized Teaching and Learning (CTL)?
- Makes learning relevant
- Engages and motivates hard-to-reach students
- Increases learner confidence & enthusiasm
- Enhances interest in long-term goals & education
from “Basic Skills as a Foundation for Student Success in CA Community Colleges,” p. 58, by the Center for Student Success & the Research & Planning Group.
Additional Resources
For more information about CTL, see The RP group’s 4-page overview:
Contextualized Teaching & Learning: A Promising Approach for Basic Skills Instruction
and