Remedial Learning Curves

For Your Information: Remedial learning curves generally assume four distinct patterns, regardless of the learner's age, gender, ethnicity and/or intelligence.

Dr. Mac describes these as:

1 The Magic Wand Remedial Learning Curve
The specific learning strategies used function like a magic wand and immediate drastic improvement takes place.
Occurs approximately 15 to 20 percent of the time.

2 The Rock Steady Remedial Learning Curve
The learning strategies are slowly but steadily working. As a result, the learner feels ever-increasing excitement about learning and experiences improved self-confidence with each success, small and large.
Occurs approximately 50 percent of the time.

3 The Cha Cha Remedial Learning Curve
The learning strategies are working erratically--almost randomly. Progress is in maddening spurts of improvement intertwined with regressions and plateaus. Ultimately, most students resolve their respective learning difficulties, but, in the interim, Lamaze breathing techniques and intense prayer would be helpful for all concerned.
Occurs approximately 20 percent of the time.

4 The Marathon Remedial Learning Curve
The learning strategies do not seem to be working at all or are working too slowly for the student, parent and/or teacher/staff. This, unfortunately, tends to demoralize all concerned. Perseverance often eventually leads to miraculous breakthroughs even for the most resistant learners. It is important to note that occasionally, patches of resistance are not uncommon during the remediation process. These often signal student burnout as a result of working very hard over a protracted period of time with only minimal results to show for one's efforts. Chronic resistance, however, is a "red flag" and is more problematic. Ironically, some students and/or parents become the most resistant and want to pull out when they are on the verge of a major breakthrough.
Occurs approximately 10 percent of the time.