We know that we all learn in different ways. We also know that we all have different abilities at different things. We know that, with appropriate practice and commitment we can get better at most things.
If we apply this knowledge to schools, then some things become self evident:
– young people need opportunities to learn by different methods, at different rates
– young people begin at different starting points, so it makes sense to find out what/where these are and plan lessons accordingly
– young people need motivation and support to learn in their own way, and coaching to learn in new ways
So, planning for effective learning entails knowledge of the learning styles, abilities and personalities of the young people in our care, and developing programs that allow for as much individualisation as possible.
