by Virginia Gaces

Created on: September 06, 2008   Last Updated: September 07, 2008

MULTIPLE INTELLIGENCES

Based on Howard Gardner's Theory of multiple intelligences, each student has his own type of intelligence. This may be linguistic, logical-mathematical, musical, bodily-kinesthetic, spatial, intrapersonal or interpersonal intelligence. The idea that there is a single entity of intelligence is no longer popular in the academe nowadays.

To be a great mentor, one should be able to determine which one of these types the student has and be able to enhance this and bring out the best from him.

Using a positive didactic approach will definitely enhance the teaching-learning process and will pave the way to the total personality development of the student.

SHOWING SUPPORT TO STUDENTS

Being supportive of the student's activities and praising them openly proves to be most effective. "You did well!", "Good work!" Keep up the good work!" are encouraging words which are always useful in communicating what you want to the student.

The "carrot method" (merit award method) and not the "stick method" (demerit - punishment method) should be more appropriate to utilize when dealing with students.

The carrot method works more in inspiring and motivating students to achieve more. A pat in the back or a "good work" stamp would definitely inspire and make students more self confident in working for future projects. The awareness of the category of the student's intelligence, words of encouragement and the sincere desire of the teacher to help the student would all be contributory factors to maximize the student's potential.

It imparts a message that he is good and that he could achieve anything he has set himself to do.

THE POWER OF SPOKEN WORDS

A spoken word is a powerful tool in the didactic process and also an indispensable tool in defining the value formation and personal development of students.

It is within this premise that teachers should be extra careful about the words that they speak to students. It has been proven through research that teachers have one of the most influences on their students.

There is a story about a famous writer who was inspired to become one, because of what his grade school teacher had said to him: "You write well. You'll be a famous writer someday." That sentence had stuck with him and no matter what discouraging people were afterwards, it did not matter. This motivated him to be persistent and unrelenting in pursuing his ambition until he was able to attain his dreams.

That is why as mentors, teachers should be generous with praise and scarce in their criticisms.

This is not only applicable with teachers but for parents as well.

ROLE OF PARENTS

Parents should remember that charity begins at home. Be generous with praise to your children. Focus on their positive traits and be tolerant of their defects. You'll find to your amazement that expecting them to be good will precisely bring out that desired effect- they will consequently turn out to be good children.

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