There are many ways in which you can aid a student to feel that thier opinions are valued. First is to allow them time to voice thier opinion in a safe enviornment. Acknowledge thier opinion and make possivite comments regarding those opinions.
The main key is to make it safe for thier student to voice thier opinions and to be heard. This can mean the world to the student.
Hi James,
Simple effective and supportive advice for instructors. Thanks for sharing it. By handling a discussion session effectively and listening carefully instructors can earn the respect of their students and assist in moving the learning process forward.
Gary
The thing to remember about opinions is that everyone usually has one and one opinion has just as much chance of being correct (or incorrect) as any other opinion. This being the case, the instructor should listen attentatively to each opinion, thank the student for expressing his or her opinion, and discuss it as objectively as possible while being careful not to criticize or demean any student's opinion. Just remember to treat the student as you would want to be treated if the roles were reversed.
Tell them strait out, "I value your opinion". Ask them to explain themselves,some will say something that all disagree with, but what they really are is misunderstood. Open forums for discussion. If someone says something that is completely wrong, ask the class if there is someone who disagrees instead of you coming out and telling them that they are crazy. You know, sometimes, there is just wrong and you the teacher, are the only one who sees the headlights of the train coming from such a bad statement or opinion.
I always listen closely when students share their stories during class, before and after. It is a way for me to learn more, perhaps help more, but certainly become more aware of the needs of the student because I have listened to them.
Hi Charisma,
Good way to bring the students into the educational setting. You are demonstrating your willingness to listen and respond to their input. This is a good start to earning their respect.
Gary
One of the first things that I do in class is to ask the students their preference regarding certain things. I ask them about homework and exams. I try to get their opinions and demonstrate the pros and cons of their suggestions.
Hi Rich,
Congratulations for helping your students to become proficient at respecting and listening to others. You are modeling behaviors that they will need when they are in the workforce.
Gary
I also feel this is difficult, yet incredibly important to do. I remind myself constantly that this student is learning, and I can lead by positive example, both in how to treat professionals with respect and be treated that way as well.
Listen to student's input and opinions and try to accommodate them and to let them know that you do care.
Hi June,
These are good strategies for keeping the students involved in the learning process. They see how what you are teaching will benefit them.
Gary
Always make eye contact, ponder their statements, give a serious response, if you disagree, explain why and answer follow up questions.
Some ways to make students feel their opinions are valued is to allow students to express their opinions openly, freely and comfortably. By doing so as an instructor you can promote respect for all things and people. As an instructor invite student dialog about the lessons and units of study by giving sutdents the opportunity for input, which allows for ideas. Students can develop deep love and respect for themselves, others, and their environment by sharing opinions and ideas. When the voice of students are heard it creates an environment where students feel free to express themsleves.
One major way is that they are allowed to voice thier opinion in a safe environment.
Give positive feedback after they voice thier opinion.
Empower the student to be able to voice thier opinion.
Be interested, patient and attentive to what they are saying. Ask them what they think and incorporate it into the discussion. Compliment them on their answers.
Hi Rose,
Not sure what this means. Can you expand on what their surveys are and how you use them?
Gary
Hi Elizabeth,
Student feedback is key for instructional improvement. By listening we can continue to expand our expertise as educators.
Gary
Demonstrate your active listening skills by keeping eye contact; asking additional questions; repeating some words or the entire sentence to make sure that you heard it or to express your questionable tone. If you disagree with student’s argument, do not use sharp interruption. It can be said: “I understand your point, but…†Speak clearly, carefully and use reinforcing body language. Be patient with positive attitude.
Listening to students and offerinng positive feedback is a way of demonstrating to a student that his/her opinion is valued.
