The consequences of neglecting new teachers are felt most by students

Posted by Khanyi Khuzwayo on 15 October 2024, 13:20 SAST

When there is a lack of new teacher in-service support, it can significantly impact learners in several ways. Here's how:

 Lower Quality of Instruction

New teachers often need guidance to develop effective teaching strategies. Without support:

• Lessons may lack structure or clarity.
• Teachers may struggle with pacing, differentiation, or engaging all students.
• Misunderstandings in content delivery may go uncorrected.

Impact on Learners: Students may receive inconsistent or lower-quality instruction, leading to gaps in understanding and lower academic performance.

Classroom Management Issues

In-service support often includes help with classroom management techniques.

• Without it, new teachers may struggle to maintain order or respond appropriately to behavioral issues.

Impact on Learners: Disruptive environments hinder learning for all students, especially those needing focused attention or structure.

Low Teacher Confidence and High Turnover

New teachers who feel unsupported may:

• Experience burnout or stress.
• Leave the profession early (high attrition rates).

Impact on Learners: Students face teacher turnover, which disrupts continuity in learning and the development of strong student-teacher relationships.

Limited Use of Innovative or Evidence-Based Practices

In-service programs often update teachers on:

• New pedagogical methods.
• Technology integration.
• Inclusive education strategies.

Without this, new teachers may rely on outdated or less effective approaches.

Impact on Learners: Students may not benefit from modern, engaging, or inclusive teaching practices tailored to diverse learning needs.

Less Personalised Support for Students

Mentoring helps new teachers learn to:

• Differentiate instruction.
• Assess student needs more accurately.

Impact on Learners: Struggling or gifted students may not get the targeted help they need to succeed or be challenged appropriately.

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Anecdotal evidence shows new teacher in-service support is lacking across South Africa and Sub Saharan Africa. Below is some of the impact on the new educators

Posted by Khanyi Khuzwayo on 30 September 2024, 08:45 SAST

Professional Isolation

Without structured induction, new teachers often feel unsupported and alone. This isolation can lead to:

• Low morale and confidence
• Burnout or attrition within the first few years

Inconsistent Classroom Practice

Induction provides clarity on curriculum delivery, assessment methods, classroom management, and school policies. Without it:

• New teachers may struggle to implement best practices
• Teaching may be inconsistent or below standard

Limited Professional Growth

• New teachers miss early opportunities for:
  Mentorship
• Reflective practice
• Goal setting and feedback

Attrition and Job Dissatisfaction

Lack of support is a major driver of early-career exits from the profession, leading to:

• Wasted investment in teacher education
• Ongoing teacher shortages

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8 Reasons Why Art is Important for Kids

Posted by Khanyi Khuzwayo on 28 August 2024, 15:00 SAST

Do you see art as a time for kids to get messy and play? If so, you may be surprised to know that art can be good for children in many ways. Reading, math, and science are seen as the most important subjects for children’s development, but so is art.

In the classroom, art gives children a way to communicate and develop confidence. As an after-school activity, it encourages creativity. Creating art together as a family is also a great way to connect. Even so, the benefits of art education are often overlooked.

As art education becomes less of a priority in schools across the globe, it’s up to parents to let their little artists explore their creativity. In this article, we look at 8 reasons why art education is important for kids and how you can support your children.

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AI in Education: Transforming the Kenyan Education System

Posted by Khanyi Khuzwayo on 09 July 2024, 09:50 SAST

Education in Kenya has made significant strides over the years, but disparities in technology adoption remain evident. Urban schools tend to be more technologically advanced, benefiting from better infrastructure and resources. In contrast, rural schools often lag due to limited access to the internet, electricity, and modern teaching tools. The rate of technology adoption varies widely, with urban schools integrating digital tools and platforms more rapidly than their rural counterparts.

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