GET THINGS DONE!

MYRA LUZ C. DE LUNA

One of the most challenging tasks as a language teacher is how to teach learners hoe to get things done. Learners should be able to manage their time well and be productive. They always complain that there are too many tasks to accomplish and they are having a hard time managing their time. It turn they are not really bombarded with tasks. They just don’t know how to manage their time well. Instead of doing things right away, they still slack off thinking that they have so much time but until they realized that it is already deadline and they don’t have anything done. As a teacher it is very imperative that you explain to the learners the importance of goal setting and timing. It is very important that as their teacher you reiterated to them what needs to be achieved, whether it is to improve their speaking, writing, listening, viewing, presenting, or reading skills. It is your task to help your learners set goals that are specific measurable, attainable, relevant and time-sensitive (SMART). You can be of big help in guiding their learning journey. Learners can focus on what is important if they were given clear objectives. Moreover, teach your learners how to manage their time wisely. Prioritizing tasks, assigning deadlines and allocating time for activities are all part of time management that learners need to be aware of. You can help learners overcome their laziness and they will also develop a sense of discipline if you can teach them how to manage their time well. You should also teach your learners how to break tasks down into small manageable steps. Learning the language can be overwhelming especially that learners are having a hard time learning new grammar concepts. Learners can only feel a sense of accomplishments if they are accomplishing tasks one at a time. Teach them how to be make plans and timelines to help them stay organized and motivated. You have to think of effective learning strategies that you can share with your learners who have different learning styles. You need to expose your learners to different learning strategies, and you must help them know what works for them. Help them find out what is the best for their learning needs so they can learn and discover in the best possible way they can. Learners will learn how to stay motivated and focus if only teachers can help develop intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. They need to find reason for their own language learning. They have to stay motivated and focused not because of the reward or punishment but because they know what is best for them. You need to help learners to be resilient. They need to learn how to overcome challenged and difficulties that will come their way. They need to understand that learning is not an easy journey. It will only be easy if they focus on their goals and remain motivated. Finally, teach your students how to seek help or look for resources since language learning isn’t that easy. Learners should feel comfortable at seeking help and support from the learning community. Learners should feel safe and comfortable. You have to allow them to ask questions and clarifications. Help them in exploring different apps and online courses to enhance their language learning.

-oOoTHE AUTHOR IS TEACHER III OF PUTLOD-SAN JOSE NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL