Hi Eric:
It makes sense that more individual contact can make for more meaningful learning. So how can we achieve similar results with larger groups? We just need to apply the same way of approching the class.
Student centered is not complicated. In a way, it's just an attitude. Substituting our "teaching" vs the students "learning". If no learning occurs, we could argue that teaching has not occured. So, we get creative with individualizing lessons and activities as much as possible. We try to think how best can we convey the learning message? We might have to make adjustments, or take extra time for lengthier discussions, or allow time for individiual student presentation. These activities involve engaing the student, and when we do that, the student receives a better learning experience.
Regards, Barry