Getting to know them
I usually have a handout that I let my students pair up with. I have them ask questions about each other like tell me something some people may not know about you or if they are married with kids what their goals are, how they decided on this career etc. This really sparks up some good conversations. Then when they turn them into me it gives me a better understanding of who they are. I also ask if they are hands on or a viusal learner which helps me plan my classes better.
I like this kind of exercise. We take it one step further and pass the forms onto the next class instructor so they have a heads up.
Hi Sandra,
Good strategy in getting to know and remember your students. Students like to be recognized after they have completed school. Meeting them in the community and remembering their names help them to see you as a professional in your field.
Gary
As was mentioned, I like to have students write down their names, etc. on index cards. I make sure to collect them and keep them on file so that even after they have finished my course, when I see them in the hallways outside of class I can ask them about something more specific and personal instead of just saying, "Hi, how are you?"
Hi Audrey,
I love hearing stories like this. It sounds like the results are going to beneficial for both the students, since they got to know you better and yourself, since you got to know them better. This helps to encourage the development of respect from both directions. Thanks for sharing this with us.
Gary
I have been in an administrative role, and not as an educator. I had to take over a class on short notice, because an instructor became ill. Several of the students I had met because of administrative issues, but there were several I had never actually met. After teaching class for several days, the regular instructor was able to return to her class. The students thanked me, and said that "I wasn't as scary, since they had gotten to know me better by teaching them." It was a great experience, and helped remind me why I chose this career path.
Hi Shannon,
That is what receiving and using feedback is all about. You listened to your students and then made the needed adjustments. I am sure this increased the respect the students had for you and your abilities as an educator.
Gary
In the course packets I hand out in each of my classes, there is a page that shows my teaching hours. It also states the students can reach me via email if they have questions/concerns. I tell them that before/after class can be arranged also. Something else I do with my students after about the first 2 weeks, is have them send me an email to let me know how they feel about the class and how it is progressing. I ask them to include what they like and dislike about the class. I also ask them to include some tips for me as to how they learn/study. I then read all of them and try to meet in the middle with everyone. I taught a class last term that asked for more worksheets/handouts. They did extremely well with the additional 1 to 2 worksheets/handouts I gave them.
Hi Jamie,
Good way to provide support to students. Many students prefer to talk with an instructor before or after class and knowing that you are available gives them comfort in knowing they will have some time with you. This really helps to keep them engaged.
Gary
I am always available before and after class so that I can talk to the students not just about the materials for that discussion but ask them how they are doing or other small talk. I want them to know I see them as an individual person and not just a number. I will frequently pair students up for group work. If there is one student who is introverted and shy and another who is talkative and outgoing, I like to pair those students up.
Hi Jaime,
This is so true. What are some ways you help your students to get to know each other and you them?
Thanks for your input on this.
Gary
It is important to get to know your students and them with eachother so they feel valued and more invested in the class.
Hi Toshia,
This is a good way to get the students interacting and developing relationships with each other. I know this builds the foundation for additional growth on the part of every student.
Gary
