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Without this, new teachers may rely on outdated or less effective approaches.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