Understanding strengths and weaknesses
Its so important for students to understand what their strengths are, and which areas they need to further develop. I love introducing them to various personal assessments (such as True Colours) to help them understand more about themselves and the people around them.
You brought up a very critical point. It is easy for one to understand their own strengths and weaknesses; but most importantly, the people that support them--need to be aware of what they are. It will be hard to assist a student if I don't understand the areas of opportunity.
Rick,
Coaching and nurturing definitely help. Thank you for sharing.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
I agree completely. Perceptiveness by the instructor regarding self confidence will increase the learning process, and retention rate.
Example: One on one of a lab task may make or break a student's confidence. Positive coaching will benefit not only the student's confidence, but nurture his ability to excel. Consequently, the student furthers his quest for the ultimate goal of graduation, and continued success in the working world.
Jeremy,
Yes it does. We all could also lighten up and add some humor. My son's student handbook at his first college was titled "I did'nt know about this".
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
This is a good point. I teach in a technical environment and we see a lot of students become overwhelmed by the volume of information that they need to learn. A simple reaffirmation from their instructor on how well they are grasping the concepts can make a world of difference to their confidence. Higher confidence often leads to better retention.
Edward ,
This probably gives them insights to their strengths and weaknesses that they need to use and improve upon during their studies.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
I teach Psychology to health careers students and incorporate the MBTI and a critical thinking assessment and ask each student to take them. Then use the assessments as a way of learning more about themselves, encouraging the students to use the information as they progress through the health programs the school offers.
I concur, we are only as good as our weakest students. We cannot let them be left behind.
Marlene,
Nicely stated. Sometimes it is as simple as acknowledging the strength and/or weakness through talking with the student.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
As much as it is important for students to understand their strengths and waeknesses, it is also important that as teachers we too understand our students strengths and weaknesses so we may better assist them.
Teri,
Always a great moment. For me I think of it as the lightbulb turning on.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
I sometimes tell the students that there are areas of strength that they are not yet aware of but I can definately see. I always see a spark in a student's eyes when that moment happens.
Aleesa,
As an undergraduate student, in the first course I was required to take a Meyers-Briggs assessment which, among other things suggested that I would be an educator. While initially, I fought this tooth and nail, here I am - an educator. Assessments such as the Meyers-Briggs and others can provide kine insight into a student persona, strengths, weaknesses, and even future jobs.
Aleesa,
How have you seen this improve student success?
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
