ASSESSING CHARACTERISTICS OF THE LEARNERS
As they say, no two individuals are alike. Simply, we could say that as God’s creations, we all have unique characteristics as well as varied capabilities. True to this, our learners do have diverse attributes, needs, expectations, strengths and weaknesses.
Thus, it is of vitality on our part as educators to make sure that we assess the relevant characteristics of our learners. It is of significance because of the fact that our strategies in our instruction or delivery process would be based on the capability of our pupils.
Not all our learners have equal experiences. Some would have background knowledge about our lessons or are more exposed and experienced than others. This already brings a challenge on how we would be able to teach them making sure that no one is left behind.
In consideration with the economic status of our learners, educators must make sure that they would all be treated well, may a pupil be rich or poor. There would be times when certain projects or assignments entail financial implications, and they must not be deprived just because of these constraints.
Gender could also be an issue in terms of the learning process. Oftentimes, there is a problem in stereotyping. Wherein fact, nowadays, it is encouraged to provide equal opportunities to our learners regardless of their sexual orien t at i on .
The needs and interests of the pupils also vary. We cannot just provide activities that just focus on rote learning. We must make sure that varied activities are provided to cater different skills or talents that would surely arouse the interests of the learners. Let us make sure that they are enjoying, stimulating, and interactive. Let us teach using differentiated instruction.
And, once that we are able to succeed in catering the characteristics of our learners, effective learning shall take place. So, let us remember that it is not just about simply providing knowledge and instruction. We must make sure that we prioritize the most important clientele in our profession, our learners.
— oOo— The author is Teacher I at Duquit Elementary School, Division of Mabalacat Ci t y