We used to have written into our introductory curriculum a lecture on different learning styles, how to maximize your style and enhance it with other styles. I always felt that the students really connected that I would do whatever they needed to help them access the knowledge. It cracked the door of trust and communication in our new relationship. Unfortunately, it has been removed (but I still try to sneak it in someway).
I believe the human factor plays a huge role in retention. If the students cannot trust or connect with the instructor, they are less likely to engage in the classroom. By making the classroom open and welcoming the students feel that they will get the most out of their time with the instructor. I always start day one of a class telling my students, there is no such thing as a stupid question. During my personal education, I was shy and never felt like I could ask a question in class without everyone thinking I was dumb. I think by allowing the students the comfort of knowing that every question is a good question, it gives a little bit of the human factor to them, proving that not everyone knows everything.
The human factor in student retention is very important because it significant that the student receives the proper education that they will value, as a result will keep them returning. Also is important because students must feel as if they are a part of the learning process, or the educational process. The students must feel welcomed, comfortable,respected and valued, in which plays an important role in student retention.
Hi Edwardo,
Right you are. When we see student success we know why we keep coming back to the classroom time after time.
Gary
By edwardo Mojena
Students are just like us but we have to uphold a higher value of being there for them when they need us the most. Because at the end when they graduate after all they have been through the good and bad it’s rewarding at the end
Human factor is extremely important in retention. A person wants to feel like the instructor cares and is fair. If they get the slight feeling that this is not the case, then they give up and don't gain what they should from the class.
Hi George,
You have brought up a very good point about the situation that America's educational system is facing. Everyone talks school reform but many of the approaches are doomed to failure because of the implementation models being used. This is why we face many challenges on the post secondary level with students that do not have sufficient academic skills to perform at the level required. I am a big advocate for Career Academies on the secondary level. We have data to support higher retention and higher student satisfaction when they attend these Academies. It is based upon the facts that the course content is relevant, engaging and project based. These three components keep the students focused and performing throughout their secondary careers. This prepares them for their post secondary education.
Gary
That is a good question and dependant on the goal, i.e. retention vs. outcome? The US education system prides itself on innovative methodologies in education yet now has middle to low ratings in educational outcomes among the industrialized nations. Many nations whom are less innovative methodologies with higher ratings. The human factor may keep American youth in the course but may not contribute to the overall educational success of an individual.
It is extremely important. No one wants to feel like they are just a number or a dollar sign. Each student has a story and understanding that story will aid in how effective you are as a teacher and how reseptive they are as students.
Taking the time to acknowledge students and get to understand their motivations completely changes their take on you in their education plan. Their is more classroom management and respect!
I think it is incredibly important. Knowing what their past experiences and interactions are often guide the speed or focus on particular segments in a class I use. While the ultimate goal remains the same, one must be flexible in utilizing some often very creative means of attaining that final goal. I really believe we must at least try to step in their shoes yet maintain a bit of an objective distance. This distance even if small is very important to foster to maintain control but also allow them to see what the potential for them is if they follow the program. Some are already in a bad way...one does not want to accidentally perpetuat this by going too far into their shoes.
Hi Gary,
Good advice about how to set boundaries with students. They need to know and realize that they have to meet deadlines and that there are consequences when they don't. That is real life and we are preparing them for careers so they need this part of career preparation pounded home to them.
Gary
It is true the student is not part of your family. Caring should be professional. It should reflect the real world situation. To work with a student to achieve and gain personal self-esteem is very important as this module correctly points out. But, there can be a fine line that divides help from enabling. The student, if not allowed a realistic academic goal that has consequences, will soon be disappointed in further academia, society and in the job market. When academic goals are realized pragmatics become a real possibility.
Probably the most important because it needs to be established before data and information can be exchanged. It seems everyone is looking to establish meaning with someone, and once that is begun a sharing of information can happen rather than a simple delivery function. This creates some complexity, but it creates two-way communication.
Hi Mary,
A great point that we need to remember as we are working with our non-traditional students. They need some reassurance that they can and will be successful if they put forth the effort. We humans are much like puppies at times. With a little recognition and attention our tails will start to wag.
Gary
Your classroom may be the only place your students are recognized. By the instructor recognizing all the students in her class and bringing out the best in all her students it allows others to see that we are all human beings and when treated properly, everyone can contribute. Remember that most of your students are followers and they need someone to model themselves after. This could be the most important thing you teach them.
Hi Dennis,
So true. They do need to know they have a caring and supportive instructor that will help them be successful if they will put forth the effort.
Gary
Hi Christopher,
Good point. The human factor is important for students. Knowing you are there to support their efforts and encourage their success is a great motivator.
Gary
I believe it is vital. When my students know I actually care about them, their instruction, and their future they work harder and stick around.
I find that students do not really care what you know but they do want to know how much you care. The more they think you care the more motivated they are to learn and remember what they learned.
