Understanding a student's needs
With such a diverse range of students in the classroom, sometimes it is difficult to understand an individual student's needs. It does take some time to get to know them and understand what they may need to be successful. But in time, assuming the student is willing to respond, those needs can be addressed on an individual basis.
On the first day of class I like each student to talk about themselves for 3 minutes. Just say a little something about where they grew up, what do they want to be when they grow up, what makes them tick. It gives me a sense of where they are coming from and I can try to make a connection with them as an instructor.
I agree that it does take some time to get to know your students & their strengths, but once we do know them we can help that student bring them into the classrooom & others can learn from them as well.
I think that assessing the needs of all of our students is very important.
I try to address anything that needs attention as soon as I can. I am very conforming to my students.
it is also good when the student does have the faith in confiding in you to ask for help.
I agree and Ive learned the hard way to take more than just age into account and not make assumptions. Its best I think to use a comprehensive approach to know them and understand what is needed and ask dont assume.
Kim Pettus
Hi Ginger,
I think this is a very good way to assess and plan for teaching students with diverse backgrounds and varied ages. The blending of their life experiences and chronological age enables you to customize your instruction to the point you can keep your students engaged and focused on learning.
Gary
In my teaching experience, which over the years has ranged from intructing 14-year-olds to 65-year-olds, I have found that age alone is not always determinative. I think that life experience, coupled with chronological age, is the most informative vantage point.
For example, one 30-year-old may have limited work and life experience, while another 18-year-old may have varied and vast work and life experience. So, I tend to think of "age of the student" as a combination of chronological age and work and life experience.
I agree. Getting to know your students on an individual basis may help to understand them and help them on the levels that they need help on. I think that the students will know that you are willing to really help them.
Hi John,
Right you are about helping students to understand that you are there to support them in their learning efforts. By earning their respect you will be able to establish rapport with them and this leads to them opening up and concentrating on being successful in the course.
Gary
