What is the basis of remedial teaching?

Diagnostic and Remedial Teaching

 Diagnostic and Remedial Teaching in Mathematics

The main aim of diagnostic evaluation is to determine the causes of learning problems and to formulate a plan for remedial action

“A test that is sharply focused on some specific aspect of a skill or some specific cause of difficulty in acquiring a skill, and that is useful in suggesting specific remedial actions that might help to improve mastery of that skill is a diagnostic test.“ – Thorndike.

“A diagnostic test undertakes to provide a picture of strengths and weaknesses.” – Payne.

A Diagnostic Test: is a useful tool for analyzing difficulties, but it is simply a starting point. Supplementary information concerning the physical, intellectual, social, and emotional development of the pupil is also needed before an effective remedial programme can be initiated.

In diagnostic testing the following points must be kept in mind:

1. Who are the pupils who need help?

2. Where are the errors located?

3. Why did the error occur?

Salient Features of Remedial Teaching:

1. Remedial teaching is a dynamic side of the diagnostic testing. Hence, it depends on the educational diagnosis.

2. To overcome the difficulties in learning and in acquisition of skills is the main purpose of remedial instruction.

3. Remedial teaching is not only useful to cure the shortcomings but also in preventive measures.

4. Remedial teaching is a short-term treatment.

5. Remedial teaching helps the below average students to be with the normal students in acquiring the common level of achievement.

The ultimate aim of diagnosis is to remove the weaknesses and difficulties of students. If some emotional or physical factors are responsible for the weaknesses, then efforts should be made to eliminate these factors with the help of concerned peoples. After eliminating the factors, remedial teaching should be done. The mathematics teacher may also prepare corrective material for this purpose. Thus, by remedial teaching the success can be achieved in removing the weaknesses of the student.