Giving students a new paradigm
A teacher of mine taught me that the highest calling of a teacher isn't to relate information but rather to transform the way that a student sees themselves. I think that if an educational facility can do that, the student is automatically more likely to succeed. We are of course here to educate, but what matters most is if we can make our students see themselves as people who are successful, worth caring about, and privileged to be their best self.
Callie, I agree that personal responsibility is a key part of education. What resources do you provide to help the students as they confront their obstacles?
I couldn't agree more. Continuing one's education is a choice...a road less traveled, some would say. Despite those forks in the road--the real-world and self-inflicted obstacles--the student always has an option when it comes to the realm of academia. I feel that it is the role of the instructor to provoke the student to face these demons head on. Only by acknowledging their existence and tackling them consistenly will they overcome the root causes of their self doubt. In short, a paradigm shift is the long-sought-after solution to retention, and it begins with the personal atmosphere that only the classroom setting can offer.
K.C., it's almost impossible to overestimate the impact of a student's personal contacts outside of the classroom. Without their support, it can be very difficult to overcome the inevitable challenges that occur. Have you found any methods to deal with these outside forces?
There are many reasons that a student will decide to continue their education, as the many reasons as they start on their path, to quit. I try to access their situation, personalize it, and give them a reason why it is important that they continue toward their goal. I have found, in many instances, it isn't really their idea, but another's conceived idea about why they should quit.
"I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I,
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference."
-Robert Frost
But the education facility can influence the outcome if they will treat the student like the professional they are on their way to becoming. Holding them accountable for their actions, and at the same time guiding them when under distress as well as praising their achievements. Actions do translate Especially from people the students might not see everyday(i.e. education) like they do the teachers.
"Treat people as if they were what they ought to be and you help them become what they are capable of becoming." -Goethe
Julie, teaching is an individual state of grace. The teacher can directly influence outcomes; the educational facility simply provides the backdrop.
