Error correction is a very important part of the learning process as it is rightly said,
“ We learn from our mistakes.” Teachers may use any form of error correction but it is vital that the experience of correction is a positive experience as it can be very de-motivating for the learner.
The best form of error correction is Self Correction. There are several occasions when students make errors because they were in a hurry or less attentive or distracted. They may know the content but make errors due to external factors. It is essential that young learners are trained to correct their work by themselves. They should be given time post the assignment to read or reflect and correct any errors. The teacher could prompt to help the students to find the errors. The teacher and the learners could formulate certain signals for specific errors. For eg. Point your thumb behind for past tense, forward for future tense. This will make the correction exercise fun and less stressful.
While the assignment is going on , the teacher must make notes of the mistakes that the children are making. She will then be in a position to address to the class.
Self correction to a large extent reduces the pressure on the children to be corrected.
It also reduces the disagreement which is bound to rise.
It enables the teacher to focus on the key errors without having the child to face any kind of embarrassment or worry.
Correction becomes fun if the teachers and students come out with innovative ideas of self correction like formulating signals , symbols and indicators.
The learners are trained to identify the errors in their work and rectify them.
It helps to boost the self confidence of the learners.
Self Correction must be the first tool used in assisting students to identify and rectify their own mistakes. It could be followed by peer correction and teacher correction.
Mamta Motwani
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