Dear all,

1. We must not assume that resources and technologies will solve the issues
of truancy, when the reasons are so well-entrenched in the curriculum (not
meeting the needs of some learners), in the classroom (there are some
disrespectful situations), or outside (some students have amazing
challenges at home or in the community with which they are dealing).

2. Blame is not conducive to providing solutions to absenteeism. Since
there are multiple factors, there must be multiple solutions. Working on
teacher-student relationships (whole staff or individuals), choosing an
appropriate curriculum (which might be in another place), providing
mentors, providing practical support such subsidised uniforms/ school
clothing discreetly, supporting parents who might be contributing to the
problem through antagonistic feelings, are factors that we can deal with.
Working on societal issues is possible but is long term and demands
long-term commitment. It is not for all!

3. Both money and mind are important, as I have indicated. The question is,
in what proportion? People's time does have a cost, so some money is
required, but some of the actions I have mentioned can be very cheaply
implemented.

Best wishes

John

On Sep 27 2010, Sarah Fletcher wrote:

> Hello again, Everyone, Here are our questions to work on with Kalam -
> please support our e-seminar by posting in! Warm regards, Sarah
>
> 1- After the availing of so many resources and technologies in our
> schools, why do many of our children still 'skip' lessons or school? 2-
> Children do not come to school... so, what roles schools should play in
> combating absenteeism? (just blame the children and their parents or do
> schools need to develop a positive culture of 'self-criticism'? ) 3- What
> matters most in combating absenteeism; money or mind?   (to win minds,
> you do not necessarily need to spend lots of money).
>

-- John Oversby, PI, Changing with the Climate project Funded under the
Comenius Lifelong Learning Networks programme Managed by Rayner Mayer and
Pam Lewis, Construction Management, University of Reading

Institute of Education
Reading
RG6 1HY
UK
Telephone +44 7888738595