1. Teaching Approach:
* Definition: A set of fundamental beliefs and principles about the nature of learning and teaching. It's a broad, overarching philosophy that guides the entire teaching process. It answers the "why" behind your teaching.
* Example: A constructivist approach emphasizes active learning, learner-centered activities, and collaborative work. A behaviorist approach focuses on reinforcing desired behaviors through rewards and punishments. A humanistic approach prioritizes student self-actualization and emotional well-being.
* Scope: The broadest level; it influences all other aspects of teaching.
2. Teaching Method:
* Definition: A general plan or procedure for teaching a specific topic or skill. It's a more concrete implementation of an approach. It answers the "how" of teaching a specific topic.
* Example: The inquiry-based method (a method that fits within a constructivist approach) involves posing questions and guiding students to discover answers through investigation. The lecture method (which could fit within various approaches) involves direct instruction by the teacher. The project-based learning method involves students engaging in extended projects to learn.
* Scope: Broader than a technique, encompassing several techniques.
3. Teaching Technique:
* Definition: Specific tools or activities used within a method to achieve a particular learning objective. These are the practical actions a teacher employs.
* Example: Within the inquiry-based method, techniques might include brainstorming, research using various sources, collaborative discussions, and presentations. Within a lecture method, techniques could include using visual aids, asking questions, and summarizing key points.
* Scope: The most specific level, focusing on individual actions or activities.
4. Teaching Strategy:
* Definition: A plan of action designed to achieve a particular teaching goal, often involving a combination of methods and techniques. It's a more comprehensive plan addressing a specific learning outcome. Think of it as a sequence of actions.
* Example: A strategy to teach students about the causes of World War I might involve a lecture introducing key historical figures, group work analyzing primary sources, a debate on the significance of various factors, and a culminating project creating a presentation. This strategy integrates different methods (lecture, group work, debate) and numerous techniques.
* Scope: A plan encompassing methods and techniques to achieve a specific learning outcome.
In short:
* Approach: Philosophy (Why?)
* Method: General Plan (How?)
* Technique: Specific Action (What?)
* Strategy: Comprehensive Plan to achieve a Goal (How & What to achieve a specific outcome)
These categories aren't always mutually exclusive; there's often overlap. A teacher might employ multiple methods and techniques within a single strategy, all guided by a particular approach. The key is understanding the hierarchical relationship and the increasing specificity as you move from approach to technique.