verticle probe
Students need someone to listen to them and help them settle issues that they feel are out of control. In those instances, I look for opportunities to speak to them and give them guidance with confronting issues and posing behaviors that will yield positive outcomes. They find what we have discussed helpful.
Sheila, do you ever ask them to write down a summary of the problem and solution so as to clarify it in their mind and re-enforce the procedure to solve future problems?
Once the student voices their problems and I ask them questions and they begin to talk they come up with the solution themselves and they realize that now it is out in the open it is not such a big issue. I can then change the conversation so they can't continue to dwell on the issue and they can move on.
Joan, how has vertical probing been useful in providing support?
At our school we have instructors, program directors and student affairs department that our students can go to. We use the resources in our area to help. We have used housing and shelters when available, and sometimes just an ear to listen. They feel connected and stay whenever possible.
