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Often trainers tend to try 'buddying' up a slow learner with a fast learner so they can concentrate on the rest of the group. If that still doesn't work they 'have a word' at tea-break, meaning they persuade them to leave the course and get individual help.
These approaches are reasonable, but not perfect as the impact on the group is not 100% positive.
The priority for me is that all learners achieve the objectives of the session and fast learners achieve more. If someone is struggling to achieve all the objectives then my fall-back position is that they achieve as much as possible during the session without impacting the learning of the rest of the group.
How is this possible? Well I think you have to look at techniques for teaching a class of people with mixed ability, interest level and learning styles - that is every class you teach.
First you need to map the territory by assessing everyone in the class by getting them to talk to you about what their real needs are. Most people don't need much encouragement: just ask them about their job and what they think about using the computer. What they'd really like to be able to do soon comes out.
At the same time you need to assess their learning style - visual/verbal, big picture/detailed etc - so you can keep their interest by presenting ideas in the best way for them.
So long as you keep communicating with learners you can help them achieve and exceed their objectives.
Remember: every group is made up of individuals, so deal with their individual needs and they will all keep up.
Mark Lovatt, Ideal
What advice would you give on handling learners who aren't keeping up with the group?
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