Understanding the Human in Students – Why Human Factors Matter in Education?

To err is human; to understand is divine. When a student’s performance dips, it’s easy to chalk it up to laziness, lack of interest, or even a “bad attitude.” But before you rush to judgment, have you ever considered the myriad human factors at play?

Imagine little Johnny, who suddenly stops handing in homework. Is he lazy? Or is he struggling with something as simple—and as solvable—as an uncomfortable chair that makes it hard to concentrate? Perhaps Sarah, usually a top performer, has started slipping in her grades. Could it be that her parents are fighting every night, leaving her too exhausted to focus?

Teachers often miss out on the human side of the equation, forgetting that these “little humans” can make mistakes due to infinite reasons—reasons that might seem petty but are crucial nonetheless. Enter Student-Teacher Meetings (STMs), the unsung hero of modern education.

STMs give teachers the chance to dig deep, uncovering even the pettiest of reasons that might be hindering a student’s progress. It’s not about being intrusive; it’s about being invested. Whether it’s a faulty pen, a new pair of glasses needed, or just plain anxiety about school, these little things can add up. And if they’re not addressed, they can snowball into bigger issues.

The next time a student stumbles, don’t just see the mistake—see the human. Because in education, understanding the human factors could make all the difference.