How Teachers and Learners Can Improve Communication for Better Learning Outcomes

Good communication is like the bridge that connects a teacher’s ideas to a learner’s mind. Without that bridge, the ideas fall into the river and get lost. In our African classrooms whether under a tree in a rural village, in a brick classroom in Kigali, or in a busy city school communication is more than just talking. It’s about understanding, listening, showing respect, and making sure every learner feels heard. In this post, I will share simple, practical, and tested ways for both teachers and learners to improve communication so that learning becomes easier, clearer, and more enjoyable.

1. Why Communication Matters in the Classroom

Imagine you are teaching English in a rural Rwandan school. You have a brilliant lesson plan. But when you speak, some learners are confused. They do not ask questions because they fear being laughed at. By the end of the lesson, they have not understood much. Now imagine another class where the teacher speaks clearly, uses simple examples, listens to learners, and encourages questions. In that class, even shy learners participate.

The difference?
Communication.

When teachers and learners communicate well:

• Lessons are easier to follow.
• Learners feel confident to ask questions.
• Teachers understand learners’ challenges faster.
• Everyone works together toward better results.

2. The Role of the Teacher in Good Communication

Teachers are leaders in the classroom. They set the tone for how communication happens. Here’s how teachers can improve it:

a) Speak Clearly and Simply

• Use short, simple sentences.
• Avoid too much “big” vocabulary unless you explain it.
• Repeat important points.

• Example: Instead of saying “The protagonist exhibited commendable bravery”, say “The main character was very brave”.

b) Use Examples from Learners’ Lives

If you are teaching math, use examples about selling bananas in the market or measuring beans for cooking. In English, use names of local places, like Nyamagabe or Lake Kivu, in your sentences.

c) Listen as Much as You Speak

Many teachers talk more than they listen. But listening helps you understand learners’ needs. When a learner is answering, don’t rush them, give them time.

d) Use Body Language

Smile. Nod. Use your hands to explain. Walk around the class so learners feel included. A friendly face can make a shy learner feel safe.

3. The Role of Learners in Good Communication

Learners are not just receivers of information; they are also partners in learning. Here’s what learners can do:

a) Ask Questions Without Fear

If something is not clear, raise your hand. A good teacher will respect your courage.
Remember: If you don’t understand, others may also be confused but too shy to ask.

b) Listen Carefully

Don’t just hear, listen. Listening means paying full attention without thinking about something else.

c) Speak Up in Discussions

When the teacher asks a question, share your thoughts. Even if you are not 100% sure, your answer can lead to learning.

d) Respect Turn-Taking

In a classroom, wait for your turn to speak. Respect helps everyone feel heard.

4. Practical Ways to Improve Teacher–Learner Communication

Here are easy methods you can start using tomorrow:

a) Use “Question Time” Every Lesson

After explaining a topic, give learners 5 minutes to ask anything they want about it.
In a P6 science lesson about plants, for example, a learner might ask, “Why do leaves turn yellow?” This question shows they are thinking beyond the book.

b) Practice “Think–Pair–Share”

Ask learners to think about a question alone, then discuss with a partner, then share with the class. This makes even shy learners speak up.

c) Give and Ask for Feedback

Teachers can say: “What part of today’s lesson was clear? What part was difficult?”
Learners can say: “I understood the examples, but the big words were hard.”

d) Use Visual Aids and Real Objects

Instead of only speaking, show pictures, videos, or real items. In a lesson about farming tools, bring a hoe to class and let learners touch it.

e) Create a “Safe to Speak” Rule

No laughing at mistakes. In African classrooms, fear of shame is a big barrier. Agree as a class that every voice matters.

5. Overcoming Common Communication Barriers

Sometimes communication fails because of:

• Language differences: Some learners are still learning English.
• Shyness: Fear of making mistakes.
• Large classes: Hard for everyone to speak.

Solutions:

• Use both English and local language (like Kinyarwanda) for difficult ideas.
• Encourage and praise small efforts.
• Use group work so everyone gets a chance to talk.

6. The Power of Positive Communication

Positive communication makes learners feel valued. A simple “Well done!” or “Good try” can turn a quiet learner into a confident speaker. African proverbs can be a great tool. For example, say: “Wisdom is like a baobab tree; no one person can embrace it” to show that learning is shared.

7. Technology and Communication in the Classroom

Even in rural areas, simple tech tools can help:

• Radio lessons: Learners can hear correct pronunciation.
• WhatsApp groups: Teachers can send homework instructions.
• Simple videos: Show processes like planting seeds or doing science experiments.

Remember: Technology is a helper, not a replacement for face-to-face talk.

8. Real-Life Example from Rwanda

At a secondary school in Gisagara, a teacher noticed that learners stayed silent during English class. She introduced a “Question of the Day” box where learners could write anonymous questions. Soon, shy learners started asking more, and participation doubled.

This worked because communication was made safe and non-judgmental.

9. Steps You Can Start Today

For Teachers:

1. Use simple language.
2. Give local examples.
3. Ask open-ended questions.
4. Listen more.

For Learners:

1. Be brave to ask.
2. Listen well.
3. Share your thoughts.
4. Respect others’ ideas.

10. Final Thoughts

Good communication between teachers and learners is not a gift, it’s a skill. It can be learned, practiced, and improved. When a teacher listens, learners open up. When learners speak, teachers understand their needs better. And when both sides work together, the classroom becomes a place where knowledge flows like a river from teacher to learner and back again. So tomorrow, whether you are in a mud-walled rural classroom or a modern city school, remember this:

The best learning happens when teachers and learners talk, listen, and understand each other.