Educators need a broad and deep knowledge of a multitude of disciplines, not merely their chosen branch of learning. That requires continually learning in all disciplines, new concepts and viewpoints, attitudes, and beliefs. It is a never-ending quest for the educational grail. The adult education programme, the UCT Summer School, provides everyone with the opportunity of continual learning.
Dr Melodie Wessels gifted MasiSports 10 invitations to take Masi educators and coaches to attend an ADHD workshop, run by global expert Dr Andre Venter, pictured above. He is the Founder and Chair of the Paediatric Association of Neurology and Development of SA.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is ever-increasing and an understanding of its symptoms and how to deal with it, is essential for educators.
The children display symptoms like constant fidgeting, lack of concentration and focus, excessive talking and physical movement, unable to wait their turn, acting without thinking and interrupting conversations. I know this as I am ADHD, OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder)! Many sportspeople are.
It was an eye opener to almost all the Masi contingent. Shulman, an American educational psychologist and reformer, wrote that educators, among other requirements, needed to help students develop the skills and values they will need to function in a free and just society. To do that they and the educators need to understand themselves first. A true understanding of self is essential to start the process of living a meaningful and fulfilled life.
It was an electric three hours, and in the Q&A session afterwards it became apparent how many children have ADHD. What the Masi contingent learnt was that those who cannot afford the medication for ADHD, must exercise and eat natural foods, which would assist them achieve some balance. He said that a KFC treat once a week was okay!
Educators today need a wide range of knowledge to help their learners, especially in an underprivileged township. Large classes up to 45 make individual attention difficult. Increased knowledge enabling identification of those who need additional support and help such as those with ADHD, will produce more effective students.
MasiSports is so grateful to Dr Melodie Wessels, Prof Andre Venter and the UCT Summer school.
Vince van der Bijl