Dear Editor,
I start with a question. Why did it take so long for the implementation of a Self-Access Centre (SAC) on St. Maarten? A self-access centre is vital for the social, cultural and educational development of teachers, students, parents, and for others with new skills in mind. Many of the problems facing our youth, with regard to acquiring new skills, result from the absence of such a centre - they are unable to do so. With SAC, students will be able to access information and materials they need.
As it pertains to lesson development, homework assignments, audio-visual technologies, careers and language skills, an SAC can help students to build a good relationship with teachers, counsellors, governors, and other professionals. In the area where a student lacks the discipline with studies, SAC will be able to provide assistance. The centre can assist with homework assignments, career development, research projects, self-discipline, and productive skills. The centre could also help to keep students off the street.
The centre must be user-friendly. With the introduction of new teaching strategies in the classroom, SAC will be able to guide students through the process of Suggestopedia, an approach to the development of learning.
Planning and organising study time:
1. Referral on an individual basis by their teachers.
2. Group access on a regular timetabled basis during course hours.
3. An individual sign up basis during course hours at the discretion of class teachers.
4. Outside course hours by individual student.
5. Other students on a paid-ticket basis.
Organisation of materials:
(l) Identification (b) exploration (c) behavioural objectives (d) contextual realisation (e) pedagogical realisation (f) physical production (g) usage and (h) evaluation.
In concluding, a SAC is needed to provide assistance to students, teachers, parents, and dropouts with the skills and help needed to become more efficient in the community.
Joseph Harvey
