We post our grades online, and have a comment box, I use the students name when making comments and always try to mention something that was great about the work they turned in even if it was a fail.
I just wish we could write longer comments, it is hard to put everything in 163 words.
Pretty critical. Students, like employees, work or perform best for instructors/supervisors they feel care and respect them as people.
It is hard to tread the line between being "fair and caring" and being a complete hard-ass- especially with students who believe they really never have to perform, show up or participate.
Right now I have a class with two students who have failed my class twice- and are failing it again. They show up late (due to sleeping in or playing video games), never turn in homework and generally put forth a minimal "effort" (if it can be called that). Yet, they clearly believe it is unfair that I EXPECT that they do the simplest task! I've talked to them, given them feedback and nothing works- essentially they will flunk out of the program and have a small mountain of student loan debt as well.
It this point I have honestly told them to drop the program and look at other career options- I am not comfortable seeing them continually fail, get further in debt and acheive nothing of value.
The human factor is very important in retention. When a student enjoys coming to class they will be more likely to complete their course work. Part of that enjoyment is a feeling of being accepted by the instructor.
If challenges at home or outside of the classroom are addressed by the instructor in a supportive manner, it can prevent the student from "checking out". Noticing that a student may be in trouble can be headed off by a kind or encouraging word, or if necessary, getting them assistance with their particular situation.
Hi Dr. Anderson,
This is part of what intrinsic motivation is about. If we can get the students to start thinking along the lines of ROI and self development then their attendance will increase. Good point.
Gary
Hi Karen,
What did they say? Curious minds want to know!
Gary
The human factor is of utmost importance. After attending a class, each student should have the feeling of being more complete, more knowledgeable, or possess a greater undertanding of what it means to be a self-actualized person. Life is just better because of having attended the class. If students feel this, they will return to class.
I had a student ask at 9:30pm last night, 3 1/2 hours into the class "how do we as students stay motivated to want to study the material"
This class helped me to respond to them!
Hi Lola,
We are finding more of our students that do not have an extrinsic support system available so they do need to find within themselves a support system that will keep them in school and moving toward their career goal. This is why we instructors need to provide all the support we can to help them get a vision of their future career.
Gary
It can be the most important factor in encouraging and supporting students to continue their commitment to their educations and futures. By acknowledging who they are and showing consistent and believable interest in how they are progressing through their programs, instructors can be key to students' success. Not every student has an extrinsic support system, but all should be able to rely on the intrinsic value they have to instructors and their own success.
Melanie brought up some good points. Personalizing our emails to the students helps them feel like they matter.
Are there other ways to make the human factor in retention effective?
It plays an incredibly important role in student success. I work with students who have not always succeeded in a traditional academic environment. They are in my class to learn the art and craft of skills needed to succeed. However, there is a great deal of "book" and "lecture" learning that occurs in class that these students may not have been prepared for. Sometimes just taking notes is a struggle. I walk around and talk with each student every day as their work on their daily projects, offering support and encouragement. I greet them warmly as they walk in the door, so they are happy to be in class, where there is a safe and suppportive environment. I let each student know I believe in them, and their ability to succeed in their new profession. You're right, it makes all the difference in the world. We are people, not just numbers on a roster.
The human factor comes naturally to educators who measure their own success upon the success of each student. For me if any students fails to learn then I have failed as a teacher.
Hi Tammy,
This is very true. This is why it is so important to work at developing rapport with students and earning their respect. Both of these will go a long way in helping students to feel a part of the educational process.
Gary
The human factor is not only being considered in the educational environment but also in the work environment. Employers, business owners and educators understand that people need to know that they are cared about before they will purchase or come back to class. The simple "around the table" type relationships can make or break a company and the same is true for a class room.
Hi Melonie,
Good strategies. Through your efforts your students know you are aware of their status in the course and are available to talk with them about their work.
Gary
With regards to Retention, the Human Factor can be either devastating or completely redeeming! That is why we have courses like this … to help everyone focus more on the redeeming qualities. Although everyone on campus does play a role, Instructors are on the “front-lines” and have a crucial part.
In my online courses, I “greet” the students each week with a friendly announcement. Throughout each week, I have ample situations in which I can personally offer feedback and recognize their hard-work. Here are some ways I add the Human Factor to my online classes:
•Use their name in grading feedback on assignments
•Use their name and thank them in a follow-up post to their discussion threads
•Respect their time and busy schedules by promptly returning e-mails and phone calls – usually within 1-2 hours
•Recognize in Announcements that the course is tough and encourage them to stick with it – it’ll be worth it someday very soon
Melonie
