Identifying Mentors
Another role I see that instructors have is identifying those students that are comprehending the material and matching them with students that need help. This helps both students by encouraging one to help another with his/her knowledge, and by giving the other student a mentor or study buddy.
I also encourage working with each other and connecting with each other so that they not only feel comfortable with each other but they may see the material in a different light. Many times if something is not understood it may because a student needs it explained in a different way. A mentor or study buddy may be the person that is able to do this and keep them motivated at the same time
Many instructors I know (including myself) employ the same technique in the culinary school setting, especially since I/we can also sometimes match students not just with regard to learning needs/outcomes, but also with regard to age difference. For culinary students, older participants tend to be more advanced in all areas compared to the younger group, and strategic partnering helps the struggling student academically and the older student feel more involved socially.
I also believe this technique helps the instructor use the strong learners to his/her advantage in the classroom. These learners can help spread the load around the room and increase the productivity of the class.
That is an important tool. Students need to feel comfort in the classroom and outside with their peers.
Hi Cherika,
Good plan to involve students and allow them to help each other. This is important for not only class success but also shows them the importance of working with others when they are out in their careers.
Gary
I like that ideal I always encourage students to exchange email/phone numbers so that they can help one another. Also when I teach Pharmacology I always pair students that are not so good in math with those that are stronger in math.
