Assessment as Learner Support

Key Support for Learners’ Success in Their Studies

-Access to technologies

-Safe and supportive learning environment

-Financial support

-Effective teaching

Support learners in my context.
They need an hour let apart studying. Classroom best practice had revealed the number one factor that impacts student learning is engaging teaching. The study reveals that factors like homework,small classroom sizes and a long school day do not have a big influence on studies learning outcomes. Driving Inclusive Education in Samoa hasn’t been easy. Barriers to achieving some of the Inclusive Education goals are large class sizes in school .They are more likely to succeed when they are directed, focused nurtured, engaged connected, and valued.

The key support for learner’s success in their studies.
The 3 legged stool
teacher, parent and student, they must cooperate in order students can have a success studies. Sometimes when teacher and the student is working very hard in school and their is lack of parental support, its a must students performance will be most affected.

There’s no support that is more important than motivation. Motivation may come from others, if a learner is lucky. However, self-motivation with constant self-reminder of purpose will go a long way to helping a learner achieve a maximal success.

  • Clear instructions
  • resources
  • Financial support
  • Technology support
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  1. Know your goals and values.
  2. Turn long-term goals into short-term plans.
  3. Go to class and attend office hours.
  4. Build skills relevant to your coursework.
  5. Assess your learning style.
  6. Try new things.
  7. Maintain a social balance.
  8. Manage your time with intention.
  9. Take care of your health.

Yes, you identify key forms of support many learners need to succeed- skilled teachers who are committed, good learning resources, sound counselling, and support with relevant technology.

Excellent idea - individualized support is key as learners are different.

I like suggestions given in the posts in this forum on the type of support learners need to succeed. Common forms of support raised by most of you are:
good teachers who are committed, sound learning resources, guidance and counseling, psycho-social support, financial support, and parental support.
In open schooling, you can leverage on available technology to provide some of these forms of support.

Learners need support towards their studies as some of them are slow learners. In addition some students need support towards their discipline since it affects their studies.

If assessment is a strategy for supporting learners, it is important to make it an integral aspect of course/learning design and plan it upfront. This will ensure that the assessment aligns with the learning objectives and provides learners with the necessary feedback to improve their performance.

In terms of supporting learners in your context, there are several strategies that can be employed to help them succeed in their studies. Here are some ideas:

  1. Provide clear learning objectives: Clearly defined learning objectives help students understand what they are expected to learn and how they will be assessed. This can help them focus their efforts on the most important aspects of the course.
  2. Use formative assessments: Formative assessments provide learners with feedback on their progress and help them identify areas where they need to improve. This can help them stay motivated and engaged in the learning process.
  3. Provide timely feedback: Timely feedback is essential for learners to understand their strengths and weaknesses and make improvements. Providing feedback as soon as possible after an assessment can help learners stay on track and avoid falling behind.
  4. Encourage self-reflection: Encouraging learners to reflect on their learning can help them identify areas where they need to improve and develop a deeper understanding of the material.
  5. Provide additional resources: Providing additional resources such as study guides, practice quizzes, and online tutorials can help learners reinforce their understanding of the material and prepare for assessments.
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Sometimes learners in ODL may feel lonely. The supports they need are:

  • Motivation
  • Assignment taking
  • Time management
  • Access to learning

There are various methods that can foster success in one’s learning. Ways to support learners in my context:

  1. Manageable Class roll (student - Teacher ratio):
  • Small class roll can be easily manageable and it allows teachers to provide more individual attention and support.
  1. Effective Teaching:
  • Appropriate and relevant resources to be used for learners. Pedagogical strategies to be used to assist and support the learners of different learning abilities.
  1. Safe and Healthly Learning Environment:
  • Creating an environment where students feel safe and also provide a friendly supportive to create safe learning environment.
  1. Parental Support:
  • Parents play a vital role in supporting their childs education with the help of teachers. This hinders their performance in school.
  1. Use of Library and Technology:
  • Library plays a huge role in childs learning and on the other hand Technology provides valid information when researching. I believe in this 21st century we all should take advantage of Technology gadgets as much as we possible.
  1. Literacy and Numeracy Education:
  • English is the common medium of communication in many schools in Fiji. Learners in my context need both skills to succed in their studies.
  1. Counselling Class:
  • Frequent Counselling provided to students with discipline issues in order to motivate them towards learning. Less behavioural issues will lead to less disturbance in teaching and learning.

Support for learners in my context would ideally cover a range of aspects.
1.Ensuring access to quality education-provides sufficient resources such as textbooks,learning materials and a conducive learning environment.
2.Access to technology and internet is important in this digital age.
3.Supporting teachers through professional development programs can enhance the overall quality of education and also having well-trained and motivated teachers can make a significance difference in student’s learning.
4.Addressing socio-economic factors that may hinder students ability to focus on their studies is important.This could involve initiative like school feeding programs or scholarships opportunities for economically disadvantaged students.
5. Encouraging extracurricular activities such as clubs or projects, can foster a holistic approach to education.
6. Access to healthcare, counselling services and promoting a healthy lifestyles contribute to students overall ability to succeed.
In summary, a multi-faceted approach that addresses infrastructure, teacher training, socio economics factors and students well-being is crucial for supporting learners in Fiji to succeed in their studies.

i totally agree with the suggestion

The learners do not get a complete learning experience if they are not supported properly. The support can be in the form of course material (lecture notes/videos and OER’s). In addition, feedback to their work is essential. This gives them an opportunity to learn from their mistakes so they can improve. Timely guidance and encouragement is also important to boost their morale.

In my context, learners are individuals who engage with me, ChatGPT, to seek assistance in various academic and learning endeavors. To succeed in their studies, these learners often require the following types of support:

  1. Clear and Accurate Information: Learners need accurate and reliable information related to their specific subjects or topics of interest. This includes explanations, definitions, examples, and relevant resources.
  2. Guidance in Understanding Concepts: Many learners seek help in comprehending complex ideas, theories, or processes. Clear explanations, analogies, and step-by-step breakdowns can be crucial in aiding their understanding.
  3. Problem-Solving Assistance: Learners often encounter challenges or questions related to assignments, exercises, or projects. They require help in formulating solutions or strategies to approach specific problems.
  4. Customized Learning Paths: Each learner has unique strengths and areas where they may struggle. Providing tailored guidance and resources that cater to their individual needs can significantly enhance their learning experience.
  5. Study Tips and Strategies: Learners often benefit from advice on effective study habits, time management, note-taking techniques, and exam preparation methods.
  6. Motivation and Encouragement: Studying can be challenging, and learners may face periods of discouragement or lack of motivation. Offering words of encouragement and emphasizing the importance of perseverance can be invaluable.
  7. Feedback and Evaluation: Constructive feedback on assignments, essays, or projects helps learners understand their strengths and areas for improvement. This feedback loop is crucial for their growth and development.
  8. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills: Teaching learners how to think critically, analyze information, and solve problems independently is a vital component of their educational journey.
  9. Resource Recommendations: Suggesting relevant books, articles, videos, or other educational materials can help learners further explore and expand their knowledge on specific subjects.
  10. Emotional Support: Recognizing the emotional aspects of learning is important. Learners may face stress, anxiety, or frustration, and having a supportive environment can make a significant difference.
  11. Accessibility and Inclusivity: Ensuring that educational resources and materials are accessible to learners of all abilities and backgrounds is crucial for providing equal opportunities for success.
  12. Clear Communication: Providing responses that are concise, well-structured, and easy to understand is essential for effective learning.

Remember, every learner is unique, and their needs may vary widely. Being adaptable and responsive to their specific requirements is key to helping them succeed in their studies.

In Papua new Guinea learners required variety of support to help them archive their educational goals or dreams. All learners have different needs and not same depending on the situation they are experiencing. Two basic needs that learners in P.N.G requires support includes;

  1. Quality teaching and learning
  • they need educators or teachers who are well trained with teaching skills, strategies and have better subject knowledge to teach them. Someone who can deliver the content well to their level of understanding with effective use of teaching resources. Someone who love this job and shows kindness, guidance and hearth for the learners.
  1. Financial support
  • they need family or parents who can support them financially through their educational journey. Whether to do with lunch, necessities and school fees. Due to financial conditions many lost their educational dreams and goals and are emotionally affected.

To help students succeed in their studies, they may need various forms of support, which can vary depending on individual needs and circumstances. Some common forms of support include:

  1. Quality Teaching: Effective instruction by knowledgeable and skilled educators is fundamental. Teachers who are passionate about their subjects and skilled in their teaching methods can inspire and guide students effectively.
  2. Access to Learning Resources: Students require access to textbooks, online resources, libraries, and other materials to facilitate their learning. Adequate access to these resources is essential.
  3. Individualized Instruction: Some students may benefit from personalized attention, especially if they have specific learning needs or challenges. This can be achieved through individualized education plans (IEPs), extra tutoring, or special education services.
  4. Mentorship and Guidance: Guidance counselors or mentors can provide academic and career advice, helping students set goals and make informed decisions about their education.
  5. Peer Support: Collaboration with peers, study groups, and peer tutoring can enhance learning and help students overcome challenges.
  6. Parental Involvement: Support from parents or guardians, including a conducive learning environment at home, encouragement, and assistance with homework, is crucial, especially for younger students.
  7. Access to Technology: In the digital age, access to computers and the internet is essential for research, online resources, and digital assignments.
  8. Emotional and Psychological Support: Many students face stress, anxiety, or mental health issues that can affect their studies. Access to counseling services and a supportive school environment can help students cope with these challenges.
  9. Financial Support: For higher education, financial aid, scholarships, and affordable tuition options can be critical in ensuring students have access to advanced studies.
  10. Special Accommodations: Students with disabilities may require special accommodations, such as extra time for exams or assistive technology, to succeed in their studies.
  11. English as a Second Language (ESL) Support: For students learning English as a second language, ESL programs and language support services are essential for academic success.
  12. Inclusive and Diverse Curriculum: A curriculum that reflects diversity and different learning styles can engage a wider range of students and help them succeed.
  13. Feedback and Assessment: Regular feedback on assignments and assessments allows students to understand their progress and make necessary improvements.
  14. Time Management and Study Skills: Teaching students effective time management, study, and organizational skills can greatly enhance their academic performance.

In summary, students’ success in their studies depends on a combination of factors, including the quality of teaching, available resources, individualized support, and a supportive educational environment. Tailoring support to each student’s needs and circumstances is key to their academic success.

Helping students grow and succeed is the goal of every teacher. Learners need support in order to succeed in their studies are:
-provide relevant study materials
-be creative
-use of variety of teaching methods
-parental engagement
-set achievable goals
-encourage their involvement in academic group
-use of relevant technologies
-hands on experience