Student attrition
Quiet students need to be monitored because they have the potential to drop out of the class and not participate in class discussions.
Noel,
Yes, life happens. Especially for the adult learner who has a full-time job and a family, or worse yet is a single parent. Using professional judgment to balance compassion with appropriate classroom rigor is in constant evaluation for each of us. Acquiring the students trust in the instructor and dedication to their own quality education can usually overcome most of "life" that works against them as they pursue their degrees. Thank you for contributing your thoughts on this.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I have tried to engage students in special interests, to see that I am just like them, and not approachable on any valid subject. Sometimes I find this very useful, allowing the student to take a breath, and realize what I am here for is to help them, and sometimes , it can be non subject related. Once they solve other issues, then they are able to go back to their studies. It also reinforces their trust in my knowledge ofthe course and other issues. It gives them a more human side of me, knowing we may have the same likes as them.Try to relate to them, may help you down the road, when it really matters.
John,
Your insight is very applicable. Do you use any particular strategies to reassure these students of acceptance within your online classes? Thank you for sharing.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Knowledge about special interest the quiet student may be involved in gives you some commonalities for discussion. Eliciting their input during discussion is more likely to occur if they know that they will not be laughed at or penalized for making an incorrect statement.
veronica,
These are very good ideas. Can you describe to us how you accomplish these assessments? It sounds like an excellent approach.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I would first assess the student or situation.
Why is the student quiet? Does she or he understand the material? Is there a language barrier or writing barrier? Writing skill could be a reason why this learner is not responding. I would engage him more in the process. I would assign a topic and have him develop the topic and submit the assignment.
Hi Gerry, we use a proactive communication strategy to actively reach out to non-engaged students, which is helpful. Tina
