Retention through Redirection

Six learners mentioned that the negative behaviours and actions of other learners affected their rate of progress. Five mentioned that some teachers were too strict, or tried to cover too much material at one time. They felt that this negatively influenced their rate of progress. The reverse, as we shall see in the next section, is also true.

Positive influences on learners’ rate of progress

Learners felt that the teacher was the overall most positive influence in helping them make progress in their program. Nearly half of the learners surveyed (27 out of 60) referred to the important role of the teacher in encouraging, supporting and guiding them. Several qualities of a ‘good’ teacher mentioned by learners include enthusiasm, friendliness, sense of humour, open-mindedness, patience and dependability. Learners also mentioned that the teacher helped keep them on track.

One student took the time to record a particular event on her questionnaire. See below:

A Good Teacher

I think a very positive influence in making and maintaining good progress is the quality of the staff. To illustrate this point, I will recount an event that occurred early in my upgrading class. One day an individual behind me was having difficulty with his work. His frustration was palpable. The instructor sat down to help and the young man was somewhat unreceptive and rude. The instructor showed him many ways to do the problem. His response was to, “Forget it. I’ll figure it out later.” She persevered gently and in the end she helped the young man with his problem. He actually said he was sorry.

I like to think my instructor had the insight to understand that students come to upgrading with a lot of baggage and that through his protests, he was actually saying, “I’m frustrated. I don’t want to feel stupid again!” School is after all where we first learn that we’re not bright. I sat in class thinking that I had learned much more than math that day. I regard upgrading as such a hopeful place.

Twelve learners noted specific program features such as comfortable, positive surroundings, a flexible schedule, a strict attendance policy, additional time to complete work, working at own pace, getting clear instructions, using self-tests to prepare for final tests, maintaining a focus, taking part in the Study Skills program, accessing peer tutoring, having a resource person in the classroom and small classes.
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