Avoiding Negative Words
Choosing the appropriate encouraging words is slow going at this point. I'm not negative by any means, but I catch myself using the less appropriate words all the time since starting ED107.
I've noticed a difference when doing it right.
Any tips for while I'm thinking before I speak?
DD.
When grading test I like to use personal encouraging messages to each student. I address the letter using their first name to make it personal.
I indicate how much I believe in the student and the greatness I expect from them. Even if the score is not of passing I encourage that student to tap into their potential.
This has bought great awareness for me and I will start incorporating this in my class asap. Great lesson!
This has really made me think about the way I speak. I believe it is very important to say encouraging and positive words. It has a better affect on students.
Denise,
yes, the tone we set can have an incredible impact upon our students & their view of the course & material as well as themselves.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I agree with you DD. I never realized how important choosing positive verbiage was in encouraging a positive learning environment. I would not say that I was negative, I see myself as more encouraging than anything else. However after this course I will certainly promote more positivity and be aware of negative communication and focus on eliminating it in my courses.
Brian,
this is a good idea. I also like to avoid using red pen, it just carries a negative connotation.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
When grading a students practical assignment I try to avoid saying what is wrong with their assignment and instead focus on what the good things are and what can be improved.
Awareness and incorporating appropriate words in your lessons is a great start in helping the students see the value of a positive mindset. I have also incorporated this philosophy into my own everyday life with tremendous results. I then take the examples of those results back to share in the classroom. Eventually, students follow suit and report their own positive experiences.
This is a great tactic that I would love to adopt! Thanks for sharing.
Bill,
this sounds like an inspiring way to get them moving & motivated.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Small changes. I am trying to replace one word/phrase at a time and do that for a week. The following week I change a different word/phrase. Slowly integrating these positive phrases will hopefully allow me to completely change my vocabulary!
It's a difficult process but you can also get your students to help.
You give them the list and if they hear incorrect phrases they get an entry into a contest for a gift card of homework pass.
In my classes i like to project a learning in progress.They see me perform something and stand in aww.I tell them that when they perfom the same task it might not turn out that way,but it will with time and experience and what im looking for may not be what they think
Andric,
always a difficult challenge, especially in the public speaking environment but a good thing to be aware.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
This I can relate to I am understanding having self control and thinking before speaking can prevent misunderstandings and make a better environment in the class room. If the class is in a negative vibe me adding to it is not going to help the problem thinking of ways to counteract the negativity and just keeping and showing a positive atitude and showing students how to remain professional in all situations. A smile, some positive words a good atitude regardless of what the situation is helps set the tone.
after my introduction to my students I explain to them what its going to take to succeed in the in their chosen field. they will only get out what they put in..If they put in minimum effort they will not be to successful in our trade. our profession is very demanding.
yes I always try to think before I speak because I have a tendancy of saying something off the top of my head not intentionally trying to hurt the student just what I think he needs to hear but I should reword it so I don't hurt any ones feelings
Dan,
one of the first steps is where you are now: awareness. After that, I would encourage you to notice even throughout the day when you are using less appropriate words & really think about replacement words you can use & then consciously try to incorporate them into your lessons.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
