By L. K. Hewlett
Elvis Charles, a veteran teacher of more than 22 years, has embarked on a novel approach to teaching.
As project co-ordinator, he has implemented a technology-based programme at the Tucker Clarke Primary School at Newtown.
“I read something that inspired me to look toward a different method of teaching. ‘It said if a student doesn’t learn the way we teach, then we have to teach them the way they learn,” he said.
The school uses its Computer Lab to teach mainly the slower learners.
Charles said he did not believe that children should be ‘labelled’ as each child had individual strengths and weaknesses.
Students that could not routinely pass standard tests were usually called ‘dunce’ or worse. Charles explained that some children just learned differently and once teachers recognised this, other approaches should be adopted.
He said far too often these ‘slow learners’ fall by the wayside and get pushed through grade after grade without acquiring the necessary skills.
“By using computer technology, children find it easier to record information and it makes them more accountable for their work,” Charles said. “Computers give a more immediate feed back whereas they would have to wait for an explanation or answer after the teacher had finished what they were doing.
“This way the kids are more motivated to continue the task instead of giving up.”
Children display difficulties in class due to various reasons. Some have emotional problems, others have attention problems such as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), some suffer from Dyslexia, and some have problems taking tests.
Charles said the kids were “responding well and showing an enthusiasm they had not done in class.”
“Computers were first used in schools in the United States in the mid 80’s, and came online in the mid 90’s here in St. Kitts. Technology is being looked at as the key to success as at risk students need more personal attention,” Charles said.
Tonya Jeffers of 6A3 said she was learning lots of new things on the computer. She said sitting in class just listening to the teacher was boring sometimes and this way she was entertained while doing schoolwork.
Tonya and the other students of 6A3 have computer class at least twice a week and do research for Social Studies and other subjects.
Charles is currently completing his Bachelor of Arts degree in Education Administration and plans to record the results of the programme as part of his thesis later on.
He said the school is now placing emphasis on changing its approach to learning to make it more student-friendly. By doing that, students with learning challenges, can keep pace with their peers and not be embarrassed when they “don’t get it.”
“Computers are not judgmental, they will not call you names or laugh when you don’t get an answer right. That in itself helps boost confidence and students feel empowered and become more willing to take on challenges in class,” Charles said.
Charles conducts classes on Saturdays using the computers, projectors, VCRs and other equipment as teaching aids. He commended the St. Kitts Government and other patrons for equipping all public schools with computer labs. He said it was a visionary act and the positive results were already being realised in classrooms across the country.
