Student Fear in E-mails
This quarter I have been bombarded with e-mails from one specific student. She is so concerned about understanding the requirements of the class- she e-mails me at least 5 times a day. She asks the same questions every day. I have answered all her questions in multiple ways, directed her to the syllabus, and even directed her to other students for clarification. I have given her alot of encouragement and said not to worry about anything- that we will take one step at a time. I can see that she is just concerned about coming back to school, she has children to take care of and a job to worry about, etc. Does anyone have any advice on how I can alleviate her fears and encourage her?
Thanks.
Sarah
Kathy,
Great advice! Thank you so much for sharing.
Hi Charlotte,
This is a great move on your part because this way she can get the help she needs and you are supporting her in her effort to be a successful student.
Gary
I have a student that is similar to the student you are referring to. I too have tried to explain to her that I will be taking things one step at a time and I can be flexible and adjust as the quarter progresses. Upon further discussions with her I have found that this student is/has experienced anxiety as well as other mental health issues. I have actually referred her to the Student Resource Services, because I don't feel I am equipped to help ease her mind.
Sarah,
Every term I have at least one very needy student such as this one. I have found that if I stay just a few minutes after class to ask how things are going and what I can do to help, that is all I need to do. Just knowing that I care enough to ask is often all he/she needs. The neediness may continue, but at least I know I have done something to help. Those students often maintain contact with me in future terms too -- just because I showed an interest.
Kathy
Thank you. I think breaking it down into bite-size peices will help. I will try that this week!
Sarah
Hi Sarah,
I have had such students in the past. What I have done is to set a week plan for the student. Meaning that in this case she is to work on just the things you give her for the week. Telling her that as the weeks go by she will accomplish all of the course requirements. As you say she is returning to school with a lot of life pressures so she is overwhelmed at the moment. If you can break your course down into segments for her (meaning in her mind because I know you do this already with your lesson plans) she will be able to focus just one week at a time. I often ask my students when they start feeling like they don't understand or are overwhelmed "How do you eat an elephant?" Answer: "One bite at a time." "As instructor I am going to help you take those bites slowly until the elephant/course is gone."
Hope this will be of help to you.
Gary
