Making a Connection
I find that making a connection outside of the classroom is just as important as inside. Students are in class for so few hours during the week and if I can connect with them "where they live" they feel that I am interested and care about them all of the time; not just during the class. I also instill in my students the philosophy that we are a team - myself, them, and their classmates. I constantly emphasize cooperation and helping each other. This is also included outside of the classroom by means of exchanging phone numbers and email addresses with students who are willing to do this. (It is not mandatory, but I've never had anyone refuse.) As a result, my classes seem to thrive on a more personal relationship with each other both in and out of the classroom. I have also seen this relationship continue after their completion of the program.
Jill--
This is really an excellent strategy you have implemented. It builds community among their classmates that, I'm sure, extends beyond the task at hand. Also, allowing your 'graduates' to come back reinforces to your current students they really can make it.
Great job!
Susan
I have recently added more team work and have asked students to increase their understanding of the techniques learned in class by helping classmates who are behind. The students have really caught on to this idea and they seem to be enjoying my class more. I also try to stay in contact with my past students by allowing them to return to my classroom if there is room, for help with outside projects. They in turn will also help the current students with questions.
On one of my last surveys, many students wrote about how much they enjoyed their fellow classmates and felt they had made lasting connections.
Judith--
So true! If we can show that we care about them a a 'whole person' (inside and outside of class), that makes a huge difference in retention. And, as you have pointed out, makes it more likely they will refer others as well.
Susan
Developing good raport with the students inside and outside the school, reassures them of our committment to them. It also makes them more likely to recommend our school and hold us in high regards.
Dolly--
It certainly sounds like you go 'above and beyond' to help each and every student succeed. I really like how you are encouraging the group to come together and support each other.
Susan
