Latent learning is defined as “learning which is not apparent in the learner's behavior at the time of learning, but which manifests later when a suitable motivation and circumstances appear.” (1)
In my case, when I struggle with something to do with the computer or technology, I cannot seem to “get it” at first, but usually when I try again the next day, Voila! - I get it! Usually.
I think the brain keeps working on unsolved problems and figures them out without our knowing about it!!!
So. applying this concept to my class, I no longer worry whether a student understands a lesson completely right away. For one thing, I repeat certain lessons often, plus, I know now that the students are actually learning anyway.
It happens a lot, and the best example I can give is a story of one of my first students, Sergio:
-In 1992, I started classes in a library in Rosarito, Mexico, just south of Tijuana. I simply asked the director if I could start classes, and she gave me the key to a room located at the annex behind the library. I then put up flyers all over the area, in the library, stores, on lampposts…everywhere.
I wrote some texts and made audio-cassettes for the students. Then I went to the first class and waited, until 5 people showed up.
Sergio Hernandez was the first one there. For about one year he came to every class even if it was raining.
Sergio was a construction worker and was about 35 years old at the time. He was a quiet man and always had a smile.
BUT he was a little shy about participating in class. Often he seemed to be confused about the lessons. I worried about him, and hoped he was learning, but I was not sure.
Actually some days I felt guilty and did not want to take his payment, which was $1 US per class. Anyway, eventually I left Rosarito and said my Goodbyes to everybody.
Then in 2002 I began to sell my books and audio-cassettes at swap meets (tianguis or pulgas) in Southern California. I drove to about 10 different swap meets every month. One day in Los Angeles I was selling at a large swap meet, and whom do you think I saw? That’s right! Sergio!!!!!!!!!!!!
-Hey, Sergio – I yelled – How are you? Do you remember me!?
- Profe Pablo!!!!!!!!! How are you? It is good to see you!!
And we talked – in English – for about 30 minutes.
He told he came to LA to work and was painting houses.
I said – You speak English very well - did you take classes?
He replied – I took some, but you taught me the most! I still have your books.
Oh, good, I said, I am very glad I could help you!
We chatted a little more and then he had to leave. I was very glad to have seen Sergio after almost 10 years.
On Facebook and WhatsApp I often chat with students from all over the world, and I tell everyone Sergio’s story, because they all start learning English with the same doubts and frustrations (2),
2. from Lecturas, Learning English, inglesconprofepablo.com
Comments
Good example of person getting comfortable with the process and taking charge of his education
Right, Veronica....that is my job!!! With technology now it is a lot easier to "teach people how to teach themselves...and others".
Good observation, Paul) It's like in sport.