I-95.5 FM’s Cameron Fisher Discusses New Book-Bartering Initiative and Learning-Style Assessments with Association Leaders

Port of Spain – During a live segment on I-95.5 FM, host Cameron Fisher welcomed two guests from the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service Social and Welfare Association: Secretary of the Association ASP Nathalie John and education specialist Miss Judith David Tool. The trio outlined a community-driven “barring books” programme that trades donated textbooks for a modest membership fee, aiming to relieve the cost of school supplies for families.\n\nThe programme, launched in 2015, operates on a barter system rather than cash transactions. Members pay a lifetime membership fee of TT $150 and may borrow up to three books per year. Rental rates are TT $20 per primary-school book, TT $25 per secondary-school book, TT $50 for form-four books (kept for two years), TT $50 for lower-six and upper-six books (also kept for two years), and TT $100 for university-level texts, reflecting their higher market value. Unused or outdated volumes are distributed free of charge to police youth clubs, community centres, and other educational initiatives.\n\nWhen asked about the future of the scheme, John highlighted the need for a clause addressing frequent revisions of textbooks, noting that without such safeguards the programme risks becoming unsustainable. Tool added that the rise of e-books introduces additional challenges, including copyright clearance and limited usefulness for audio-learning students.\n\nTool, who serves as principal of two schools, a music instructor for Trinity College London, and a FIDE-certified chess trainer, explained the four recognised learning styles: visual, audio, read-write, and “cadastanic” (tactile). She stressed that most classrooms rely on a single teaching method, which can disadvantage learners whose preferred style is not catered for.\n\nTo help parents identify their children’s optimal learning approach, Tool offers a personalised assessment service. For TT $250, she conducts a one-hour evaluation, followed by a half-hour consultation and a written report detailing the child’s learning style and practical home-learning tips. Assessments are available by appointment through her contact number 333-3173.\n\nThe discussion concluded with a call for greater collaboration between the association, schools, and parents to expand the book-bartering network, incorporate e-book considerations, and provide targeted support for children who require special educational interventions.