Succeeding at school amid trying academic times

Though the academic calendar was expected to continue as usual this year, the second Covid-19 wave threw yet another spanner in the works and saw academic institutions once again continuing virtually.

This week, the University of Pretoria’s professor Kobus Maree – from the department of educational psychology – offered both learners and parents tips on how they could maximise learning potential during the pandemic.

“The postponement of the reopening of schools is a fait accompli. It is up to all of us to manage yet another Covid-19 curve ball in an emotionally and socially intelligent way,” Maree said.

“This is an opportunity for learners to plan a course of action, and for parents to support them in attaining their goals,” Maree said.

He further said what was important now was converting anxiety and uncertainty into useful behaviour by doing something instead of fretting over it.

Maree had the following advice for learners: 

– Reflect on the situation.
– Plan your action steps: doing, instead of talking.
– Take action, move forward.
– Conduct regular follow-ups.
– Become more adaptable.

For parents he had the below advice: 

– Let children know you are there for them.
– Keep the conversation going and talk to children their future.
– Comprehend what your child has to say and enable them to listen to and advise themselves.
– Be encouraging and positive.
– Manage your body language: folding arms, yawning or not making eye-contact while your child is talking sends out a negative and disrespectful message.
– Try and see situations through your child’s eyes and refrain from criticising them. Instead repeat their words and allow them to listen to themselves and decide for themselves.
– If necessary, enquire gently from your child if they would like to speak with a psychologist or counsellor to help them manage their emotions or deal with specific issues.

“The pandemic is not about to disappear overnight. While we cannot make the virus go away, we can adhere to all of the guidelines to minimise our chances of contracting it,” Maree said.

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