A Program Model that can be used in a Classroom or in Tutoring

Let’s now look at how the three teaching methods and the five learning approaches we have seen are put together into a flow-through chart.

This program model begins on the left side with learner intake, where we bring the learner into a safe learning space that is non-threatening and, hopefully, a space the learner will want to return to.

The flow-through process takes the learner to logical sequencing (also referred to as advance organizer) whereby an intake inventory and a placement test can be used to help you understand a learner’s background and their hopes and fears for the future. This gives both quantitative (numerical and measurable) and qualitative (learner-articulated and personally affirmed) information.

Also in this opening phase, it is recommended to use discovery learning and social learning to familiarize learners with program staff or other learners (if there are any), or make reference to a learner’s family or co-workers who might be supports when using one-to-one tutoring (in-person or online via Zoom or other media). Introduce and discover what is new for learners, and make them feel safe within that learning space by meeting/socializing with others (as best you can, including family) through the first nurturing weeks of your program.

Before long, various learner interests and needs will begin to emerge, or become clarified. Rushing to this next phase of finding emphasis for each learner is not going to be helpful. Learner interests and needs will often take time to emerge. No two learners are alike.

Moreover, once identified, learner interests might change or lose emphasis in the sense of what your learner is seeking to achieve and learn. It is not unusual for an early interest to be eclipsed by another. “I came needing a job and literacy is what I need to get that job; but I really enjoy learning about other cultures.” It can happen that two or more interests or goals may have equal value. This means, to be relevant, the teaching materials should be adapted along the way. This is the creative side of the teaching/tutoring journey.

That’s a broad description of the flow-through chart. Let’s now step in closer and consider the logic of the program with a closer look at the steps involved.