expectations
If the student does not know what to do or when to do it....... how will they learn to do the task and succeed
LeeAnne--
Excellent point. Not many of us remember things we were only told once. Reinforcing the expectations as well as how the material can be applied on-the-job is important.
Susan
important to note also, that often we present the expectations early in the class, but do not continually reinforce the expectations.....this is vital!
Allen--
You certain have great insight in identifying those students who need extra encouragement early in the game. Good for you!
Susan
When i talk with new student , i can ussually tell what kind of thoughts are running through his or her head . The confident ones are students who have had prior auto training such as highschool auto shop. The ones who havent any experience are the ones who have no idea what lies ahead or whats in store . Couple lack of knowledge and insecurity and you have a student who needs some mentoring from the get go . Some reassuring words that remind the student that all students are here to learn and that we have ways of helping them if the stert to fall behind.
I believe that proper "expectations" are one of the most important keys to student retention. If we can soften the shock of a new enviroment and situation, students can better focus on learning rather than stressing out.
I realize that this won't necessarily work at some schools and colleges, but at our school, I have found that having the student sit in on an ongoing class or two for an evening beforehand gives them a very clear understanding of what they can expect when they really start class later. With proper expectations, we see almost no dropped classes... Talking to other students is usually a big help too in quelling doubts and showing them it can be done.
i agree, and i remind the students from the beginning that is normal to feel lost, but with the time they will learn
Troy--
Absolutely! Attending class is supposed to prepare them for these questions and so we need to remember it is up to us to make things very clear so they can learn and succeed.
Susan
