This learning is based on the premise of memorizing information by repetition. Since time immemorial rote learning has been used by students and teachers alike. It helps to memorize the alphabet, numbers, multiplication tables and mathematical formulae. Although it solves the short-term requirement of memorization, in the long term it develops problems if the concepts are not understood.
Students use this method to rapidly learn concepts often under pressure and demand. Although it serves a short-term purpose, the information often fades away. This technique is now slowly being discarded by teachers with more informative teaching techniques like associative and critical thinking.
Although being an outdated manner of teaching, rote learning is still relevant in some areas they are:
- Multiplication tables: counting whenever you need to multiply is not humanely possible hence rote learning of tables comes in handy.
- Mathematical Formulae: doing the maths every time you need to solve a trigonometry problem is tiresome and time taking. Rote learning is a saviour in this situation.
- Chemistry Tables: It would become difficult to learn chemistry if the periodic table is not learnt by heart.
So, rote learning is a saviour when it comes to avoiding cumbersome maths and multiplication. But it can never replace the importance of associative learning and critical thinking in the Learning Management System process. A balance between the two is the key.
