This is one of the most often asked questions by parents.
As a parent, one of the most main concerns we have is ensuring that our children truly understand what they are being taught. We want them to go beyond mere memorisation and develop a deep understanding of the concepts being taught.
There is a huge difference between “they were taught” and “they learned”.
A teacher or a tutor may teach or tutor, but how do we ensure students have learned? This has been an ongoing debate for many decades in education.
“Being taught” refers to the act of transmitting knowledge from one person to another. It involves a teacher or instructor imparting information to a learner. This can be done through various methods such as lectures, demonstrations, or interactive discussions. The focus here is on the teacher’s role in delivering information and facilitating the learning process.
On the other hand, “learned” relates to the process of absorbing information and acquiring knowledge or skills. It encompasses the learner’s active engagement with the material being taught. Learning goes beyond simply receiving information; it involves comprehending concepts, applying them in practical situations, and developing a deeper understanding.
Ideally, these two phrases should be identical – when someone is being taught something, they should also be actively learning and internalizing that knowledge. However, this is not always the case. Sometimes learners may struggle with conceptual understanding or have difficulty comprehending certain topics despite being taught. Hence the need to know when your child has learned.
This is where tutoring and additional support can play a crucial role in bridging gaps in learning. A skilled tutor can provide individualised guidance and help learners navigate through challenging concepts or topics. By addressing specific areas of difficulty and adopting tailored teaching strategies, tutors can enhance comprehension and facilitate effective learning.
The best way to gauge whether your child truly understands what they are learning is by encouraging them to teach it to someone else. Best is to teach it to you. It’s no surprise that Einstein famously said, “If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough.”
“If you cannot explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough.”- Einstein.
This approach, known as “the best way to learn is to teach,” has been proven time and time again to be highly effective in solidifying knowledge and promoting conceptual understanding.
Tutoring can also play a crucial role in assessing your child’s understanding. A skilled tutor can identify any gaps in their knowledge and provide targeted support to help them grasp difficult concepts. By working closely with a tutor, your child can receive personalised guidance that caters specifically to their learning needs.
In addition, taking a structured approach towards learning can yield remarkable results. Encourage your child to ask questions, get your child to explain to the tutor what they have learned, and make sure what was taught is actually learned. This will not only enhance their understanding but also foster critical thinking skills that will benefit them throughout their educational journey.
Ultimately, it is essential to remember that true understanding goes beyond surface-level comprehension. By incorporating these strategies into your child’s learning routine, you can ensure they develop a deep and lasting grasp of what they are taught.
Take the first step towards unlocking their full potential by exploring tutoring in Sydney today. Your child’s education is invaluable; ensure they’re not just learning, but truly understanding and thriving.
