Lahveenya Panchalingam

With an extensive background in working with students, hands on experience in administration of law programs, teaching and supporting the delivery of the law syllabus, I am able to contribute immensely to the development of the university. I embrace the holistic approach. I do my best to get to know my students so I can best meet their needs. I focus on not only their cognitive development but also their emotional and social wellbeing, which is equally necessary for learning to occur.
In order to make my students understand my teaching/lecturing or instructions clearly, i used several methods as stated below:-
1. Give an overview of the topic/assignment. For example, what are the learning outcomes.
2. Explain the topic of discussion using charts or diagrams.
3. Give students real life examples so they can see the application of the law or the purpose of the assignment or project.
4. Explain to them the techniques of studying and answering questions. For example, the technique of using Issue, Law, Application and Conclusion in dealing with a legal scenario.
By using these steps, the message is delivered and communicated clearly.
Moreover, I am a strong believer that pastoral care and welfare is critical to the success of students and their academic engagement, performance and relationships with each other. In fact, having an effective student well-being program in place has the potential to address lack of engagement, absenteeism and nurture an environment of opportunity, resilience and respect. I have developed my own personal approach in providing pastoral care. In the first 10 minutes of my class, I will walk around the classroom and just speak to my students to see how they are keeping and doing. In that short conversation, I will be able to gauge the student's well-being. If I sense that student is going through some difficult time or problems, I will drop an email to that particular student and touch base with the student.
I also remind my students in every class that I am there for them and if they have any problems or challenges, I will be there to speak to them or get assistance for them. I also take the time to speak to my students privately if they are dealing with difficult welfare situations or confidential matters.I am also the Lecturer Advisor for the Let’s Excel Program (Peer Tutoring Program) which is created to assist students who are struggling to keep the CGPA above 2.0.
I use visualization since it is a useful technique to process or summarize the knowledge that has been taught in class. When students receive the information through visual means, they are more able to retain both the previous learning and new information for a longer time. Visualization is also a helpful learning process for lower-attaining learners to receive the information in a simpler, clear and systematic way. During my lectures and tutorials, I use flow charts, concepts maps and diagrams to allow students to grasp the legal concepts and principles more effectively. I have used these visual aids to teach a student with dyslexia Tort Law. The student was able to grasp the information and do well in her A Level exams.