Learning Differently

STUDENTS WHO LEARN DIFFERENTLY

At DAS, we understand that every child’s educational journey is unique. While some learners progress smoothly, others may encounter learning gaps or struggle with foundational skills. We believe that with the right support and resources, these challenges can be overcome, and every child can reach their full potential. In this guide, we’ll explore how we address learning gaps and help build strong educational foundations.

UNDERSTANDING LEARNING GAPS – LACK OF FOUNDATIONAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

Learning gaps refer to the areas in a student’s education where they haven’t grasped essential concepts or skills necessary to progress. These gaps can emerge for various reasons, including missed instruction, interruptions in learning, or differences in learning pace.

Common Signs of Learning Gaps:

  • Difficulty Advancing: A student may find it challenging to move to more advanced topics because they haven’t fully understood foundational concepts.
  • Struggles with Mastery: Difficulty mastering basic skills like reading, writing, math, or critical thinking can be indicative of learning gaps.
  • Low Confidence: Learners with gaps may lack confidence in their abilities, affecting their overall motivation, perseverance and self-esteem.
  • Frustration: As learners encounter difficulties, they may become frustrated, leading to disengagement from learning.

EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING CHALLENGES

Many students face unique challenges that can impact their educational experience. One such challenge is Executive Functioning issues, which play a crucial role in a student’s ability to plan, organise, manage time, and more. In this guide, we delve into the realm of Executive Functioning and its significance in the lives of struggling learners.

Challenges Faced by Struggling Learners with Executive Function:

Struggling learners may experience difficulties in one or more areas of Executive Functioning. These challenges can manifest as:

  • Disorganisation: Students may struggle with keeping track of assignments, materials, and deadlines.
  • Time Management Issues:  Difficulty in managing time effectively, leading to missed assignments or poor time allocation.
  • Procrastination:  Putting off tasks until the last minute, which can negatively impact academic performance.
  • Forgetfulness:  Frequent lapses in memory, making it challenging to remember instructions or complete tasks.
  • Impulsivity:  Acting without thinking through consequences, which can affect decision-making and behaviour in the classroom.

ATTENTION AND FOCUS CHALLENGES

One common hurdle that many struggling learners encounter is difficulty in sustaining attention and maintaining focus. In this guide, we explore the complexities of attention and focus issues and their impact on students’ learning experiences.

Challenges Faced by Struggling Learners with Attention and Focus Issues:

Struggling learners may encounter various attention and focus challenges, which can manifest as:

  • Short Attention Span:  Difficulty in maintaining focus for extended periods during lessons or when completing assignments.
  • Easily Distracted:  Tendency to become sidetracked by external stimuli or internal thoughts.
  • Difficulty with Multitasking:  Trouble managing several tasks at once, leading to reduced efficiency and accuracy.
  • Inconsistent Focus:  Uneven attention span, making it challenging to sustain engagement in various subjects or activities.
  • Difficulty Shifting Attention:  Struggles when switching between tasks or adjusting focus as needed.

BEHAVIOURAL AND EMOTIONAL CONCERNS

At DAS, we recognise that every student’s journey in education comes with its unique set of challenges. For some, these challenges may extend beyond the academic realm, encompassing emotional and behavioural concerns that affect their overall well-being.

Challenges Faced by Struggling Learners with Behavioural and Emotional concerns:

Struggling learners often grapple with emotional and behavioural concerns that can hinder their academic progress and overall development. These challenges may include:

  • Frustration:  Feelings of frustration or inadequacy in response to academic difficulties, leading to avoidance of learning tasks.
  • Isolation:  Withdrawing from social interactions due to anxiety or difficulties in social situations.
  • Low Self-Esteem:  Negative self-perceptions stemming from academic struggles, impacting self-confidence.
  • Behavioural Outbursts:  Expressing frustration or stress through disruptive behaviours in the classroom.