retention
Does anyone else make themselves available to the students after class whenever possible? There are many students that are too afraid/shy to ask questions while other students are there. This helps retention by making the student know that you care enough to take the time just to listen.
I always make it a point during introductions at the start of the course to make the students understand that I am available anytime before or after class, with some notice of course, and sometimes just an impromtue discussion after class. Sometimes during lab time I am able to get with a student one on one that I think may be struggling with an issue, that way he/she does not feel singled out by having to stay after class. What ever works, if you really care you will find a way.
This is something that is matter of fact in our dept. We want our people to have a clear picture of what we are doing and what we are trying to get across. Most afternoons directly after class we are available.
To Instructors this would seem to go without saying, but students need to be reminded and encouraged to seek help outside of class. Peer pressure, the stigma that you may be percieved as "less intelligent" than others, etc etc. can influence a student. I would think a welcoming enviroment for tutoring tailored to the particular student would be helpful
Isn't it an expectation that all instructors be available after class?
