I like the ideas put forward in this module. I have been an instructor for about 15 years, and it is easy to get into "routine" teaching patterns that are not conducive to an active learning environment. I also enjoy the thoughts that are freely given from others in the forum's, and I will continue to use the ideas put forth that I feel are helpful. By focusing on the individual, it is easier to get a feel for where each student is, instead of focusing on the class as a whole. I have always said that each class has a "personality", and it is easy to fall into the trap of overlooking the diversity of each student. By focusing on the individual, you overcome the stigma of evaluating the class as an entity by itself.
By making the class exciting and fun and, most importantly, engaging the students. I personally create things to keep the students' interest, such as conducting class outdoors, creating games that will reward the students, having the students role play, asking their opinions on certain topics, etc.
By talking with students about their challenges and helping them devlop ways to over come them.
I agree. It is up to the instructor to make the student feel comfortable and approachable. They need the encouragement of the instructor. It makes the student want to try more thus making them successful in the class.
Tom,
Accessibility is so important for students to know about and take advantage of. You are showing them how much you value their success and that you are there to help them achieve it if they are willing to put forth the effort.
Gary
I try to make myself as available to my students as possible, both on campus and via email. Working with me, they know that there are no problems too difficult to overcome as long as they ask questions. I stress the importance of excellent communication as a problem solving tool. Therefore, having an open door policy and answering emails daily assures them that I care about their concerns.
Zack,
Sounds like a fun activity that really engages the students.
Gary
An instructor can increase student retention by making the class interesting. Something that I do in my classroom is that I call my class "Las Vegas". I have 2 "Welcome to Las Vegas Signs" above the classroom doors. This concept is used when we have classroom discussions. What happens in vegas stays in vegas! The students enjoy the concept.
Student retention is not a simple problem, its a team issue. I think that their are several responsible parties for retention of a college student but day in and day out you are the person in contact with the student the most. So you have to act like a coach, motivate them everyday, remind them why they are in the classroom. If they have questions get back to them quickly and correctly. Send them to the appropriate parties if needed depending on the question. All of these practices have helped me with student retention, I hope they help you.
Thank You,
Ian
Ava,
Good plan and one I am sure is effective. You are focused on all aspects of the educational environment ranging from student to physical setting. Instructors need to see the big picture in terms of learning opportunities and this approach does just that.
Gary
I agree that by making the student feel valued and a part of the school and reminding them of their long term goals this will help with student retention. I also think that using past work skills as a foundation to developing new knowledge and expertise is key in retention as well.
Helping them to see how what they are learning will help them to find a career they are looking for is another technique that I use that helps give the students motivation when learning new material.
I set the stage for learning by introducing myself first and then letting the students introduce themselves. I then let them put on a index card what they expect to learn from my course. I develop a physical comfort, security, acceptance, self-respect and a complete picture of what is expected in the class. In addition to showing a human factor by being fair and caring. This is what I do to increase student retention.
I love this idea! Letting the students feel they are a part of something bigger and that they will help new students in the future is so key!
Cynthia,
Congratulations for such a high retention rate. You are doing a lot of things right to have this high of percentage. Keep up the great work!
Gary
I agree completely, Gary! I have taught online now for seven years, and there are unique challenges to connecting to online students. I am proud to say that my retention rate has been consistently in the mid to high 80 percentile.
I keep trying new tricks!
Thank you for your response,
Cynthia
Cynthia,
I like your plan. It shows that you value the students and that you are will to listen and respond to their comments as they move through the course. It is easy as you know to get lost in the online setting unless a professor like yourself has a plan to draw out the students. Good job.
Gary
Gregory,
Good strategy! I teach online, so in live chat sessions, I always ask first "How is your week going?" Then I try to remember things they tell me, and bring it up next time ("So, how did that project at work go this week?)
Cheers,
Cynthia
Jeff,
I agree! I am always professional, but I also make sure that students know I am approachable and caring. For instance, I teach online, and I make sure I answer Emails immediately if I am already online working; if not, always within 24 hours. 48 hours is the requirement, but I never wait that long to respond. This shows students that I care!
Hi Dr. Meers,
I teach English composition online, and in live chat sessions, I always ask students to share with me and other students any insights they have on how the assignment or topic we are discussing might relate to their workplace writing or academic endeavors. This engages them in discussion, but also reminds them that I respect them, and I am interested in their insights and how those can contribute to our discussion. It also keeps them coming back to other live chats.
Cynthia Armes
Associate Professor
