Informing students of status in course
Why is it important to keep students informed of their status in the course at all times?
JOE,
Yes, too often, struggling students find they're too deep in the hole to make a passing grade, or at least achieve a grade they're satisfied with. Correction takes time, and I too believe early intervention, communication, and sharing of grade information provides the best foundation to establish a game plan. A quote I've come across..."the first rule of holes--when you're in one, stop digging!"
Barry Westling
I think it's important because students can then have plenty of time during the course to modify his study habits or anything in order for the learner to accomplish his goal.
Holli,
I think all longer term instructors have encountered the bare minimum type of student. They can be a challenge. Most certainly, individual chats are necessary. Most often I'll try to focus on their reasons for enrolling in the first place, what they hope to achieve, and how their life can be changed for the better when they go the extra measure. Usually, if I can convince them of the "what's in it for me", they can see my point.
Barry Westling
Students need to be aware of thier current status in a course to help keep them on track. Some students seem to do the bare minimum and expect to pass, while others work toward the highest grade possible. Especially for those who are planning to pass with the least effort possible, it is important to ensure they are aware of the level of work to succeed in a class. I try to encourage more effort if I notice a pattern of this sort emerging by inspiring pride in the work itself more than in the simple act of "passing".
John,
Yes, and without direction, students are likely to flounder. I like to meet individually to convey my interest in the students success, give advice, and offer suggestion for improvement, if needed.
Barry Westling
students can't gage how they are doing on less they know there progress that's ye you need to inform them of there grades soon as possible.
Frank,
I find chatting with a student individually works best for me, as I am able to give specific advice, and convey I care about their success.
Barry Westling
Students will not like being surprized to see a low score and will likely blame the instructor. I offer to meet with students after each grade is posted to review taheir grades and I certainly meet with students with grades I am concerned about.
I think it helps with the status of the student's progress through the course.
Sherry,
Right. Some students won't ever think to ask for help. I like to plan a time where every student gets a "checkup" regarding their status. The personalized interaction can much more meaningful than just handing out a sheet with grade status, (which also may be true with electronic grading).
Barry Westling
Stacy,
Yes, and without direction, students will be left on their own to prepare and perform as they think works best. More often then not, even a few words of advice can redirect students to a more appropriate route.
Barry Westling
Keeping students informed of their status in the course will allow the students to see how they are or are not progressing in the course. If they see that they are struggling earlier in a course, they can ask for assistance early instead of waiting until it is too late to successfully pass the course.
It rewards the students who are doing well and encourages them to continue their hard work and it notifies students who are doing poorly that they need to improve and they are at risk.
Jennifer,
True, and when students begin to head too far off course, it creates double the effort to get back on course. Personalized discussion works best for me, as I feel I can better individualize my comments and suggestions in a one on one conversation.
Barry Westling
Students need to know where they stand in terms of their grade and if they are meeting the course objectives. If they do not know how they are doing in the course, they may not be able to make changes or ask for help before it is too late.
Lisa,
Lists like these are good for setting expectations. When these are done at the outset, it helps create the tone and format the class will take, and give students clear guidelines about what to expect.
Barry Westling
Santiago,
And students will appreciate that their instructor cares enough about their progress to take time, give advice, suggestions, and offer support for their instructional pursuits.
Barry Westling
I created a "my Rules" sheet.
It informs the students of everything I expect from them while sitting in my class to them being absent and the appearance.
This saves me time, because when something is brought up- i tell the student to refer back to the "MY rules" sheet and clarification occurs
There is no substitution for communication. Progress reports, advisement forms, 1:1 coaching, and even directing the student in right direction for example Student Services. By doing all or some of the above, it shows you care about the academic progress and also keeping the student informed.
