Involve the Learner

The only way a class can operate successfully is when everyone in the class has a valid say in how the class will operate. Children know best what they want and need and including them in decisions regarding how things need to be done and what is expected of the class is the best way to make sure that efficient teaching and learning takes place.

Teachers should be aware of the backgrounds of the learners in their class in order to effectively teach these learners. Teachers should encourage learners to openly communicate like the video by Foley 2014 states. In order for this to happen, students need to feel safe and comfortable to talk to their teacher. Teachers should also establish a good relationship with to parents of the learners as this will help better communication and also involve parents in the education of their children.

Effective teaching practices is essential to ensure that learners have the best possible chance to be successful and to make sure that they reach their full potential. Time should therefore be used optimally and key objectives need to be prioritized. These practices should include both academic and social aspects. It is impossible to only focus on academics in a classroom because we have to focus on the learner as a whole. Learners spent most of their time at school and teachers should therefore try to help them develop in all aspects of life. Learners should also be able to say what they would like to contribute to the class.

Resources should be used to enhance the teaching and learning experience rather than taking away from effective communication. There are so many ways to use technology in the classroom these days and information is literally a click away. We should however be very careful when using these resources and try to get the inputs of the learners as to what will work for them. You can maybe ask them which social media they prefer to get their homework on or how they would prefer to submit assignments.

The article by Wills 2015 is a good example of how teaching and learning works better when the teacher involves the learners in the process. It also shows when given the chance, learners will choose the right thing to do.

Optimal learning is therefore only possible when learners have a say in the way their classes are structured.