Regression is when your eyes skip backwards while you are reading. This can get in the way of understanding what is being read. To train your eyes to stop making backward movements, try the following strategies:

• Use a piece of plain paper to cover the lines that have been read. Move the paper down the page as you are reading so that you cannot look back at what you have already read.
• Use your finger to focus your eyes on the line that is being read. Move your finger along smoothly from left to right. Remember to underline not point.

Practice by reading newspaper articles. The columns used in newspapers naturally guide our eyes down the page.

Remember to Use adult Learning Principles

You can assume that there will be a range of essential skill levels in employees taking any type of training. You will want to watch for any issues. Be aware of the indicators.

Some of the following adult learning principles apply particularly to help those who are challenged by written material.

1. Draw on the learner’s experience as a resource.
Learners bring a huge amount of experience and knowledge with them to the classroom. Drawing on their experience verbally as a practice increases their comfort and self-confidence levels and creates an environment which is directly relevant to their lives. Relevance leads to motivation, a key factor in learning.

2. Involve learners in the planning and implementation of learning activities.
Learners having difficulty will tell you what types of activities they need and what is troublesome. Invite ongoing input and feedback as to what types of activities are needed and which materials should be chosen.

3. Cultivate self-direction in learners.
Self-direction as a principle will encourage learners to identify and access what they need to learn fully. By inviting the learners to think about what they need, you are really encouraging self-direction.

4. Use small groups whenever possible.
Groups promote teamwork and encourage cooperation and collaboration among learners. Peer support and even peer tutoring or coaching born out of this environment have been proven to be highly successful for many.