Slow learners is a term often used for children with below average IQ levels. It seems like a lifelong tag suggesting that such children are non-achievers. But that is not the issue. The only problem with them is that they learn concepts and achieve developmental milestones at a pace slower than their peers. We all have few of them in our classrooms.
Teachers and parents play pivotal roles in a slow learner’s life. Creating a healthy and conducive environment for a slow learner is of utmost importance to improve their pace. Often teachers who have a slow learner in their class face problems: keeping up with the term syllabus, fear of losing empathy toward such students, and many others.
Here are few tips for teachers to motivate slow learners in our classrooms.
1. Patience is essential
Being patient is the foremost aspect of teaching a slow learner. The prime issue with slow learners is their weak cognitive skills and slow speed of learning. A teacher has to be understanding and patient towards their ability to get distracted easily and having a low attention span. Try and find creative ways to cope with the situation of repeating every basic instruction, concepts, definitions, steps in practical, etc. They won't get them at once.
2. Involve classmates
Teach the other students to empathize with these special students. Specially ask them not to bully or tease slow learners. Inform them about their condition and how they could make a difference. Ensure you have these timely sessions in the slow learner’s absence.
3. Less Homework
Homework for students like these can be more of a burden than learning. For such children, quality matters over quantity. Having minimum homework would help them understand learning and reduce their anxiety. This would keep up their enthusiasm towards school.
4. Peer Tutoring
Let friends help. Being taught from someone who is of the same age works better for everyone. Let them select 1 or 2 of their friends to form a study group. Assign the study group the task of reiterating the new teachings of the day and assisting with homework.
5. Praise them
Every tiny bit of genuine appreciation helps. Praising a small effort of a slow learner in front of the class would definitely boost their confidence.
6. What not to do
Do not scold them in front of everyone, do that in private. Do not force written education on them. Work on reading and oral exercises first. Do not let them quit trying. Encourage them to continue their hard work even it means extending the time deadlines. Do not be overprotective.
The children need to know that it is completely okay to learn things slowly than not to learn at all. Patience and continuous encouragement is key.
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