The Sunday Mail (Zimbabwe)

Key attributes of a successful learner

is often EDUCATION described as the passport to the future, the key to success and the foundation of a civilised and prosperous society.

- Gabriel Manyeruke Gabriel Manyeruke is an author and educator at Wise Owl High School in Marondera. Contact details: 0774122288, E-mail: manyeruke4@gmail.com

Many great thinkers throughout history have emphasised the importance of education. They realise its transforma­tive power and ability to shape characters and society.

As such, education is vital for the growth and developmen­t of young people. It provides them with the necessary skills and knowledge required to navigate the complexiti­es of life.

Educated young people are the vanguard of every successful nation.

Education is not just about acquiring knowledge, but also developing critical skills that are embedded in strong moral values.

Every parent or guardian sending children to school will be proud to see them being morally upright and achieving excellence in their schoolwork as they grow up.

Nonetheles­s, some learners with potential may fail to excel in class.

One of the main reasons for not doing well is lack of the right attributes for learning. These attributes include discipline, self-motivation, perseveran­ce, a positive attitude and time management skills.

Academic success is never a fluke but something that is predetermi­ned.

Learners short of the good attributes have limited academic potential. Their chances of positively transformi­ng their lives are also limited.

Without enthusiasm, passion and a positive attitude towards schoolwork, learners may struggle to stay engaged in their studies and may not see value in doing well academical­ly.

Conversely, learners with a positive attitude towards schoolwork value education and always strive to make the most of the opportunit­ies it offers.

Some schoolchil­dren have more than enough learning resources at their disposal but less than enough zeal and discipline to focus on their academic work.

Lack of discipline can lead to missed assignment­s, failure to pay attention in class, poor time management, unhealthy study habits, lagging behind in studies, trouble with teachers and, ultimately, lower grades in exams.

Self-discipline is essential for learning and attainment of desired results.

Discipline is the bedrock upon which positive habits can be establishe­d.

Perseveran­ce is also critical for academic success. However, some learners lack this quality.

Young people must develop the tenacity to push through setbacks.

They should learn not to easily give up when faced with difficult tasks or obstacles.

Aristotle once said: “The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet.”

This quote reminds us that the journey can be challengin­g, but the rewards and benefits that come from it are immeasurab­le. What is required is hard work. Determinat­ion is also vital.

Bearing these in mind enables individual­s to achieve their full potential at school.

Learners should understand that procrastin­ation and neglecting assignment­s until the last minute can lead to poor quality work and lower grades.

Preparatio­n for exams way before they come and going an extra mile when studying enhance academic performanc­e.

Without good time management skills, learners may feel overwhelme­d with work, which can negatively impact their overall wellbeing at school.

Interperso­nal skills are important in building positive relationsh­ips with teachers and peers at school.

Children with these attributes can easily collaborat­e with others and seek help when needed as they do not struggle to express themselves clearly and confidentl­y.

 ?? ??

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Zimbabwe