Balancing support and challenge:



u  As with any effective student-centered learning, development and progression in Initial Teacher Education is based on achieving the right balance between support, appropriate to the stage in their learning and challenge to move the student teacher forward in their thinking or practice.
u  The student teacher will need different levels of support and challenge in different situations.
l  This may change from week to week or even day to day.
l  A shorter term example may be if they are struggling with one issue, such as behavior management, with a particular class or individual.
l  Recognizing the level of support or challenge that is needed in a particular circumstance and being flexible in your approach is a key mentoring skill.


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