The importance of educational psychologists

The importance of educational psychologists

Covid-19 has sparked a new health crisis – the mental health pandemic. From the loss of jobs and income, to the loss of friends and Helping teachers family members, many people have been faced with great difficulties and traumatic Importantly, educational psychologists’ scope experiences that have impacted mental of practice does not only include assisting health and wellbeing the world over. and counselling learners. They also provide guidance and support to educators and Within the realm of education, many learners educational institutions. More specifically, have been left feeling scared, confused, and they offer strategic advice to teachers on how overwhelmed by the sudden change that has to create an optimal learning environment for happened around them. Educators, too, have their students. been thrown into the deep end, expected to create a safe and comfortable environment During the Covid-19 pandemic, teachers have for learners, when they themselves are trying been doing their best to create some form to adjust to a new way of teaching and living. of structure for their students in the midst of chaos. Of course, some learners adjust easily, Guiding young people through a pandemic while others need a bit more help. while ensuring that they keep up with the curriculum and achieve their very best is no In this context, as educators grapple with a easy task. This is why, I believe, educational new way of teaching during the pandemic, psychologists have one of the most important an educational psychologist can provide jobs at this time. invaluable insight that empowers teachers and enables them to meet the individual Helping students needs of their students. Some teachers lack knowledge on developmental and learning disabilities, and this is where the educational psychologist fills the gap. Educational psychologists use their knowledge in Psychology and Education to inform teachers how learning takes place in different children. Once teachers are aware of the unique ways in which children obtain and gather information, they are able to adjust their teaching style accordingly to create an ideal learning environment for their students. Educational psychologists also invest their time informing teachers about the different personality types and what methods they can put into place in the

For children feeling bewildered and uncertain, or who are battling to adjust to all the changes that the pandemic has brought, an educational psychologist can be very helpful. These professionals work within local communities, families, and schools to help young children to achieve their full potential and improve their overall experience of learning.

Students are not only supported within the classroom environment, but also in their day-to-day lives. Taking a holistic view of the learner means that educational psychologists are able to encourage growth and development in all facets of the learner’s life. Often, children don’t want to open up to their parents about issues they are facing, for various reasons. Perhaps they fear being punished or feel uncomfortable talking about a certain topic. Educational psychologists engage with children to develop a trusting relationship so that they can accurately assess and intervene where necessary in a manner that is safe and comfortable for the child.

classroom environment to properly develop their students' personalities. Armed with this kind of information, teachers may also have more insight into why certain Covid-19 protocols might affect some students more than others.

When educational psychologists and teachers join forces, it is that much easier to create a meaningful classroom environment and ensure that interventions are put in place for learners to develop to their highest potential.

Helping parents

Parents play a critical role in a child's cognitive, cultural, mental, and social developmental process. Research has shown that parents who are actively involved in their children's lives are able to create a strong, positive impact on their child’s development. According to this research, these children are likely to be intellectual, emotional intelligent and well-socialised adults. An educational psychologist can educate and inform parents about strategies that can be used in the home environment to develop and raise their children.

Educational psychologists are able to provide sound and well-researched advice to parents to help them with issues or worries that their children may be facing. Parental support groups, led by psychologists, also provide emotional support to parents and help them to get other points of view. Parents who feel supported and well informed are able to put more energy into developing and growing their children.

Educational psychologists use their knowledge to collaborate with parents, teachers, and learners to ensure that children are well supported and are able to develop into competent, emotionally mature adults. We need to ensure that children and educators have sufficient access to educational psychologists so that they can grow into the leaders of tomorrow, particularly during this time. As Nelson Mandela once said, ‘Our children are our greatest treasures. They are our future.’

Micaela Helders

As an intern psychometrist with an Honours degree in Psychology from Rhodes University, Micaela Helders is passionate about helping people of all ages. Micaela has also taught emotional intelligence programmes to young children, equipping them with the skills they need to adapt and thrive in a world that holds multiple challenges and demands.