KNOW YOUR STUDENTS
There's a warm fuzzy feeling a student gets when they know their instructor is committed to helping them succeed.
William,
I think you will be very satisfied with the results you get with this method.
Gary
I am starting a new class this evening. I am going to use the note cards. In the past, I would have the students introduce themselves and tell a little something about themselves. I think I may have hindered their openness. I think having them write the information for me will be more candid. It will allow me to keep the notes and write comments as class discussions reveal more about my students. This will allow me to address their individual needs without compromising the group time.
very true, I have found that some students have no support from home. Sometimes a spouse is a little intimidated about them moving forward or they are told that they are not smart enough and with an instructors encouragement and a little extra pat on the back it can be the modivation that they needed to succeed. People want to know they they can do it and they are smart enough!
Travis,
I know you are going to enjoy the results of this method.
Gary
The note cards is a great idea. We are almost done with the current quarter and I am still learning things about my students. I will definitely use them starting next class. I know this will help make the class discussions more relevent to all involved.
I agree the student needs to know you really care about them. Get to know them and show them you are interested in their success. It gives them a sense of security and makes them more interested in learning and trying harder to meet their goals.
I agree. I think it makes a huge difference when students feel like instructors care. An instructor's attitude towards students is crucial in their success.
Absolutely. I really liked the idea shared from one of the videos concerning having the students fill out note cards with personal information concerning their backgrounds and experiences. The instructor stated that he reviewed the note cards before each class, and it allowed him to pull the students into the discussions.
I love this idea and intend to try it with my next class. If you have a student with specific life or job experiences that relate to the subject matter, it would be great to have that information in mind while leading classroom discussions.
It also shows interest of the instructor in the lives and success of his or her students.
This was one of many ideas that I have taken away from this course.
