Unlocking Potential: The Power of Specialist Teaching for Struggling Learners
By Anaberta Oehlers-Jaen
Head, DAS International
Every child is unique, with their own set of talents and challenges. For some students, the journey of learning can be a bit more complex. They might face hurdles that make it harder to grasp certain concepts, read fluently, find the blank page scary when trying to write, or comprehend maths problems. It's a reality that many parents face, and it can be both perplexing and worrisome.
The good news is that specialist teaching can be a beacon of hope for struggling learners, whether they have a formal diagnosis of a learning difference or simply find themselves grappling with learning gaps. Let's explore the remarkable benefits of specialist teaching, with a particular focus on how it involves Individual Education Plans (IEPs).
1. Personalised Learning with Individual Education Plans (IEPs)
Imagine an educational experience that's tailor-made for your child. This is precisely what specialist teaching, guided by Individual Education Plans (IEPs), offers. An IEP is a personalised document that outlines specific learning goals, strategies, and support tailored to your child's unique needs.
Specialist teachers work closely with students to identify their strengths and areas where they need extra support. This personalised approach is like having a roadmap for success. It pinpoints the exact areas where a struggling learner needs help, whether it's improving reading fluency, mastering maths concepts, or boosting self-confidence.
With IEPs, parents, teachers, and students collaborate to set achievable targets. This fosters a sense of ownership and empowerment. Students are not just passive learners; they actively participate in their educational journey. As progress is made, IEPs are adjusted to ensure that learning remains engaging and effective.
2. Specialised Expertise: Masters of Learning Differences
One of the standout features of specialist teaching is the deep knowledge and expertise these educators bring to the table. They are masters of understanding learning differences such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, ADHD, and more. This expertise allows them to employ targeted strategies that make a world of difference.
Specialist teachers are equipped with a toolbox of evidence-based approaches. For instance, they might use the renowned Orton-Gillingham method, a structured, multi-sensory approach to reading and language. They understand how to tap into the strengths of struggling learners, harnessing creativity, and innovation to unlock their true potential.
Their specialised knowledge extends beyond textbooks. They are skilled at recognising when a student's challenges may go beyond the surface, delving deeper into the root causes of learning difficulties. This holistic understanding is invaluable in crafting effective solutions.
3. Building Self-Esteem: Nurturing Confidence
Struggling learners often face an additional battle: a hit to their self-esteem. They might compare themselves to peers who seem to effortlessly grasp concepts, leading to feelings of inadequacy. Specialist teachers are not just educators; they are mentors who nurture self-esteem.
These educators are adept at helping students recognise their unique strengths and abilities. They celebrate every milestone, no matter how small, transforming struggles into victories. When a student conquers a challenging word, solves a complex maths problem, or completes a reading assignment, it's a moment of triumph that reverberates with confidence.
In the safe and supportive environment fostered by specialist teachers, students discover that their learning differences don't define them. Instead, they are part of what makes them extraordinary. This newfound self-belief has a ripple effect, extending beyond the classroom into every aspect of their lives.
At DAS International, specialist teaching is a lifeline for students who may have felt lost in a traditional educational setting. It's a testament to the power of individualised education, a commitment to expertise, and the belief that every child can achieve greatness.
As we continue our exploration of the benefits of specialist teaching, we'll delve into the importance of specialist teachers and instruction, evidence-based approaches, the importance of inclusivity, and the profound impact on social and emotional development. So, stay tuned as we uncover more about how specialist teaching can be a transformative force in the lives of struggling learners.
