MY REFLECTIONS ON FIELD STUDY I - EPISODE 2

             LEARNER’S CHARACTERISTICS AND NEEDS

This episode’s main focus is on Valuing Diversity of Learners. I was given the task to observe learners from different levels, describe each learner based on my observations and compare them in terms of their interest and needs.

I have chosen to observe three different learners:  Kindergarten, Grade 2 and Grade IV pupils. For a kindergarten pupil, an exciting classroom activity means clapping along and acting out a song. She gets totally stimulated by music and sounds, jumping or running around hyperactively. At age 9, a grade 3 pupil still feels ok running around with peers regardless of gender and doing rough sports. At age 11, a grade 4 pupil somehow feels embarrassed doing those things and gets more concerned with her personal feminity so social dances may become more important than vigorous sports. Why? This is because our needs change as we grow.

I’ve learned that learners’ characteristics and needs vary with age. That’s why teachers carefully plan flexible class activities according to the learner’s characteristics and interest, physical ability and other aspects to meet their needs.