Analysing the issues: The basic requirements

The basic requirements for student success in formal education and training, as they are conventionally structured and delivered, must include the following conditions.

For students

• consistent attendance, and engagement

• a sense of security, comfort and confidence, and realistic and meaningful challenge

• fluency in the use of the spoken form of the language of instruction, including the ability to read and write at the level required to complete the work provided; and

• completion of required work.

For institutions

• encouragement of attendance, and engagement (including exploring, explaining and supporting relevant and meaningful motives for participation);

• provision of a climate which supports a sense of security, comfort and confidence, and work which provides a realistic and meaningful challenge. This 'climate' includes a belief in the potential of students and their capacity to learn, and expectations that this will occur;

• provision of effective instruction in language, numeracy and other required skills;

and

• provision of conditions which allow sustained work on set tasks, including time, space, access to learning materials and absence of interference.

From parents and caregivers

• encouragement of attendance, and engagement; and

• provision of a climate of support and encouragement.

Think and talk