Notes from QED520 Educational Psychology I

Unmotivated and underachieving students are not the same as low ability students. They underachieve usually due to emotional and psychological factors. For example, they may not see the need to achieve, or face relationship problems.

Thus, there is an emphasis on socio-emotional learning (SEL) which helps to raise self-awareness and the like. Students also need to learn about consequences of their action. If necessary, they may take diagnostic tests that will help determine the kind of assistance needed.

So-called weak students may also be in actual fact better at practical intelligence (Sternberg) than cognitive intelligence. In such cases, a hands-on approach is encouraged.