Page 5 - LC First REC, First EUC and First CONF

Introduction
Learning centers, at first commonly called learning stations, are an example of a paradigm shift in education. This new model or method for learning seems to have sprung up simultaneously in many places at once. At first, learning centers were used for math, science, and geography, as schools searched for interactive ways for children to better grasp what they were expected to know. Educators also wanted to provide for the different learning styles and abilities of children and allow them to work at their own pace. Thus creative teachers started developing learning centers, sta- tions, or stops where learners could complete a specific activity—with tools and directions provid- ed—on their own and following their own timetable.
Directors of faith formation around the country began to examine the possibilities of using this model with learners and parents as they explored new ways to “hand on the faith.” They discov- ered that because this model can be used with almost any doctrinal content, it is a practical way to involve parents more fully in preparing their children for the sacraments of reconciliation and Eucharist.
The learning centers in this book are meant to supplement whatever textbooks children are using. They offer families and children the opportunity to work together informally as they share faith and prepare for the sacraments. Learning centers help families do this in a non-intimidating, educational, and enjoyable way. For the whole community, they offer a way to spend meaningful time with parish children while joining in the process of learning about and living the faith. As with any parish endeavor, this “whole community” aspect is very important.
Learning centers for sacrament preparation have many additional benefits. They give children the opportunity for interactive and creative learning about reconciliation and Eucharist, in addi- tion to what is covered in their textbooks. They give families the opportunity to do hands-on tasks with their children and thus discover new ways to share their faith. Both parents and children learn more about the sacraments in this kind of informal setting. Learning centers also offer the oppor- tunity for more flexible scheduling of sacrament preparation classes. They give directors of faith formation the opportunity to observe children and parents working together, and thus determine which centers offer the greatest learning opportunities.
A few practical points:
• If possible, before the families begin their visits to the learning centers, review briefly with
them the sheet of directions: the goal, the Church teaching, what they will learn, etc.
• Make copies of the suggested readings from the Catechism of the Catholic Church and post them at the appropriate centers so those who wish can read them.
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Twenty-Third Publications Sample