More interest in Let Me Learn process

An increasing number of schools have teachers trained in the Let Me Learn Process, a system developed in the US that provides an understanding of the individual child's learning needs and allows children to unlock their will to learn.

Coordinator Colin Calleja said 90 teachers from six schools took part in a LML training programme in 2002, while 41 from eight schools took part last year.

This year the programme is being followed by 54 teachers from 21 schools.

Through identifying what LML calls children's "learning combinations", pupils once dismissed as inattentive, disruptive, or difficult suddenly become valid students with their own learning abilities that don't fit the traditional school mould.

Parents are also taking an interest. In June, the LML team will be embarking on a pilot project at Zurrieq through which 33 parents will receive training in the process over five weeks.

Although more had expressed an interest in learning about the advanced learning process, the number had to be limited, Mr Calleja explained.

He said there were seven trainers in Malta - four in primary and secondary schools, one at MCAST, one at the Junior College and one in industry.

Mr Calleja said that initially, schoolsused to apply to send teachers for training, but now teachers have to apply individually, ensuring that the programme is followed by those who are committed to the process. Training lasts about 10 weeks in all.

Mr Calleja said teachers were free as to whether or not to apply the process in their classrooms.

The originator of the process is Christine Johnson, a professor at Rowan University in New Jersey.