Appreciating students, avoiding excessive academic pressure, and recognizing that learners differ in how they understand information is key to successful performance for a teacher, Ms Vellary Oyugi, an educationist, has said.
Ms Oyugi made the remarks during a capacity-building workshop organized by Storymoja Africa in partnership with White Swan School, held at White Swan School in Matangiri-Karurina, Embu County.
The training brought together teachers for sessions on learner-centered teaching approaches and effective classroom management.
Oyugi emphasized that teachers should take time to understand their learners and identify the methods that best suit each student.
She noted that learners absorb information differently, through demonstrations, reading aloud, visual materials, or listening, and urged teachers to tailor their teaching approaches accordingly.
She further encouraged collaboration in the classroom, urging teachers to actively engage learners in activities while maintaining high expectations. According to her, understanding individual learner needs helps improve participation and overall performance.
The educationist also cautioned teachers against rushing to judge learners, saying it is important to first understand the root cause of poor performance or indiscipline.
She noted that some learners may be facing learning challenges that require patience and early intervention. She discouraged public criticism of learners, advising teachers to correct them privately and constructively.

Participants were encouraged to embrace digital platforms to improve their teaching methods and remain updated with modern education practices.
They were urged to design flexible lessons that accommodate different learning environments, including group work, peer learning, and individual tasks.
Another facilitator, Judy Nyakio, encouraged teachers to build confidence in their work, remain firm in their teaching, and act as role models to learners. She noted that teachers also play a key role in shaping values and discipline among students.
She likened teachers to football coaches, saying they guide learners on how to succeed while allowing them to take active roles in their own learning.
The White Swan School director Patrick Njamiu commended the training, saying it would enhance teaching standards and improve learner outcomes in the institution.
Senior teacher Isaya Achando and other participants described the workshop as impactful, noting that it equipped them with practical skills to improve classroom delivery and remain competitive in the education sector.
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