To ensure every student feels that they are included or part of the group
Interacting with students allows for knowledge exchange between the learner and the facilitator. Allowing the facilitator to assess the learner of the knowledge acquired from past and present. An interacting learning environment provides a conducive opportunity for the learner to learn and the facilitotor to learn from the learner that provides a partnership in the learning process.
Hi Walter,
Absolutely! Each student is different this is one of the reasons we have to be so good at what we do because each student has to be handled differently. I can say something to one student that I may have to change my whole approach based on the way I say it to another student.
Patricia
Each student has a unique personality, though all students are physically part of the class, they will feel more involved and more motivated if they feel that their teacher can reach them on their specific level.
It is important to interact with each student so it gives them confidence in their class. It also helps them to feel equality among other students.
Every student has the right to feel engaged by the instructor, feel valued, feel wanted, and feel part of the whole group.
I speak to every student every day, even if it is limited to pre- or post-class "smalltalk".
Hi Patricia,
I like your attitude! I require this of all of my instructors. They must arrive 15 minutes prior to class and stay over 30 minutes after class. This practice has proven to be very effective. Students appreciate it.
Patricia
To keep the class on an even scale, no one is special or gets excluded
In order to be able to meet with students on an individual basis I always be sure to arrive early for classes as well as remain available after class. Also, I give the students an oppertunity to meet with me at other times as long as an appointment is made. By making myself as available as possible I am able to reach all my students.
Hi Toneita,
Some students need a little more time other than class time to grasp the material. I am so happy to know that you are willing to put in additional time with your students to ensure their success.
Patricia
To be able to assess each individual student's progess, an instructor needs to be in "touch" with the students on an indivual basis.
This can be done with direct questions to a student during a break, before class, after class and during class. The important thing to remember and asking individual students questions during class is it may put them on the "spot" and you may not get a true reading on the individual students progess.
Depending on how often your class meets, would determine the number of times and amount of time you would be able to meet with students on an individual basis to discuss academic progress, any questions or concerns they may have in a private setting.
It is important to interact with each student so that they can 'buy in' to the course and get the most out of it. They feel as if they are a part of it and that they are valued as a student and as a person.
Interacting with students helps build a relationship with the student that also develops a bond and trust. In this professional relationship learning becomes enriched by this personal relationship.
Hi Patricia,
My feelings/thoughts are mutual. Everyone should matter because everyone does matter. They all are important, and they should be treated accordingly.
Patricia
I agree, as an instructor in a vocational setting, i survey that projects at hand, allow the student to choose his first and/or second projects, if I see the student wavering and having difficulty with the project, I'll guide him through it and then pick the next project for him to do, one that maybe more in line with his skill level, upon satifactory completion of the project, I will review the project with th student. I find that in the beginning, the student may have confidence issues because of not completing his choice of project satisfactorly, but with my guidence on my selected project, I can encourage and bring about change in confidence in the student that will allow him to move forward guiding him onto projects that will be more meaningful to his success.
You want to have the students feel that they are just as important as the next student. By interacting with every student no one will feel left out or that they do not belong. Everyone has a voice and they deserve to be heard. I do not believe in a "teacher's pet" and I highly discourage any type of special treatment. Everyone is here to learn and all students should be treated fairly and equally!
Hi Deborah,
The ones that you think will shine don't, and the ones you think won't shine does. Quiet/shy students will surprise you in a good way!
Patricia
It is important to interact with every student because you are their teacher and they are there to learn, and hopefully a lot of that will come from you. It is important to get to know each student on some level in order to access what he/she needs to learn from you and the given course.
Students need to feel that they are seen and heard. You have also established a rapport with the students, so it is only professional that you speak to them and converse with them outside of the classroom. I have seen my students in the mall and stores, and we automatically greet each other pleasantly. I think it is also important that while instructors maintain a rapport with students that they maintain a professional approach and interaction. It is okay and acceptable to have an appropriate laugh with students, but make sure that the interaction remains within appropriate boundaries i.e. no jokes that are inappropriate in nature, or laughing at inappropriate comments. For instance, I experienced a student describing a seedy scene from a movie very loudly while we were on class break. She was in the classroom within the audible distance of students who was not a part of the conversation. I certainly did not care to hear the description, and it was clear by other students' expresions that they didn't want to hear either. Needless to say, I asked her to save her comments for a more appropriate setting.
All students learn at different levels. It's important to know where your students are in understanding the lesson being taught. Also, you may need to schedule a session outside of class time to work with a student a little more. If you interact with every student, they maybe more comfortable asking for a seperate session.
