|
- By Dave Bowden
When it comes to educating students with learning disabilities, individualisation is the name of the game.
"Children with learning difficulties learn best when they are able to work in a one-to-one situation when needed," says Dr. John McNamara, an associate professor in the Child and Youth Studies department at Brock University.
The vast majority of students with learning difficulties struggle with their reading and literacy skills. But, learning difficulties is a hidden disability that easily fades into the background. Dr. McNamara says that for this reason children can often get lost in the crowd of a classroom. Therefore teachers with specialized education training and schools designed to support struggling children may be an answer for many students and families.
"They can offer programs that meet the individual needs of the child so they do not get lost in the crowd," explains Dr. McNamara.
At the Shoore Centre for Learning in Toronto, Ontario they limit class sizes to no more than six or seven students to allow teachers to work with each student on a personal level.
"Our school is about meeting the individual needs of the student. That's what drives everybody here," says founder and director Michael Shoore.
Parents can also do a lot to help their children at home. Dr. McNamara suggests that the home be a safe place where a child is supported and praised unconditionally. Additionally, homework routines, breaks and being physically active can also help reduce the stresses of having learning challenges for a child.
For Grade 12 student Jordan, the individualised approach at the Shoore Centre for Learning worked. Having bounced between public schools in Grades 9 and 10, Jordan couldn't find a fit within the public system that would accommodate his problems with literacy and math.
"If I stayed in the public school system, I probably wouldn't have graduated," Jordan says.
After arriving at the Shoore Centre, Jordan admits he didn't immediately take to the smaller class sizes and individualised teaching method. But as the staff continued to encourage him, he says he was eventually won over by their enthusiasm and passion. Having recently graduated, today he's preparing to make the transition to university in the fall.
"The ultimate goal is that a child is productive and happy and ends up being a happy and productive adult," says Dr. McNamara. Having a student integrated back into society and traditional learning settings will help them succeed in college or university, just as it has for Jordan.
|
