Stay Involved
I always stay very involved with my students. Having personal conversations about them or myself, as long as the conversation doesn't cross the line, helps to keep me aware of any issues with them so I can help if it's needed
I agree with your thoughts, we come in contact with so many students that need that extra time and attention from us as instructors. As I said in another post being an instructor is more than just standing and teaching.
It is good when a student feels tha you are working with he or she in order to accomplish his or her accademics goals.
I would have one on one private conversation with a student and let them know that there are help available if needed. Once they are referred out, I follow up with students and get feedback from them. I also try to motivate them with positive attitude and remind them of why they are here in the first place.
I would expect that your students appreciate your attention, but also that you don't allow the conversation to become too casual or unprofessional. True?
Staying involved includes making the students feel like you care about their success as individuals, and they are not just "another student". I do not allow the conversation to become too causal or unprofessional. I try to remain objective and keep my personal opinions out.
I try to broaden the conversation to a point where I can make a reference or conection to uor material.
Stephen, what do you do if/when you encounter a student who doesn't have a clear connection with the material?
I use the first day in class to inquire about the students conection to the class material.
Larry, how do you define "staying involved"? Do you stay in touch with students after they complete your course?
Shawn, it sounds like these are brief, individual conversations - not general classroom discussions. True?
Okay, Joe. How do you handle the student who doesn't want you knowing them?
What types of issues besides class do you talk about, Arthur?
Staying involved with your students lets them know that you care about them as individuals.
I like to talk to them about common interestst. Especially ones that tie in to the course we are working on. If we are both avid runners, or both enjoy the same type of food, it's a way to stay connected and keep that door of comunication open.
very important to get to know your students as completely as possible
I want students to know that I am human also and I talk to them about other issues besides class this makes them know that I am approachable and sets them at ease about stress in the classroom.
