Student Progress
After week three of the course, I give each student a grade sheet. This lets them track their own progress.
Hi James:
You've provided a good inspirational motto. Students do need to be accountable.
We can also facilitate improved performance by offering encouragement and support, advice and assistance, and demonstrating genuine care and concern for the students successfulness. Because, we are accountable to the students, just as they are accountable for themselves.
Going beyond progress reports, we need to be willing to convey how to improve as well as what to improve on. If they knew, they probably wouldn't need the help.
Regards, Barry
I once had an instructor say to me when I asked about a progress report; "If you don't know, it's probably not good." Lesson learned, at that point of my own acedemic career I took ownership of my progress and managed it as such.
Now in teaching, I encourage my students to do the same, become responsible and accountable for their education.
Hi Darryl:
That personal touch is awesome. It shows you care and gives you an opportunity to clarify, encourage, or offer suggestions.
Regards, Barry
Good idea of having them track and grade their own progress. I like to give weekly assessments which they asssess themselves such as "areas they learned the most", "areas that they need more assistance," "what can I do to help you,", etc. These type of questions gives me a snapshot of where the student stands at that particular time and it gives me the oppurtunity to work with them weekly to ensure they are on track. I also think that helps the student by having them realize that "I'm in a good position" or " I need help."
Hi Beth:
It's a common student mentality to want to know their grades. But we know that grades are only numerical calculations based on work performed or assignments completed.
Reviewing grades with students sometimes gives an instructor the opportunity to have a 1-on-1 discussion, or even a class discussion that results in reinforcing a positive relationship with the students or class.
Regards, Barry
My students only seem interested in the scores, not what they have not absorbed from the grades, be it assignments or tests.
Hi Marla:
Keeping students in the loop as far as tracking their grades and attendance can go a long ways towards keeping the relationship fresh, current, and aligned for the best outcomes.
Regards, Barry
My institution does something similar, except it is a midterm progress report. This gives the student an idea of where they stand and what needs to be done for improvement. We also keep track of attendence, with penalties for too many absences.
Hi Chris:
Great!. Giving access and a welcoming discussion setting will work towards trust and better student relationships.
Regards, Barry
I leave my door open on a daily basis for students to inquire about their grade. The students who are struggling, I tend to call them out as needed to discuss their progress or lack of.
Hi Elizabeth:
That extra time is quality time for the students. I know when I'm giving extra attention to students, they're going to benefit, even if they don't recognize or express appreciation. I know I've helped them in their success.
Regards, Barry
I agree. Some students need the extra attention in there success. We provide tutoring, mentoring, and intense content review for students.
Hi Troy:
This is a good way for students to track their progress. When teachers are able to engage in a personal way such as a conversation, grading discussion, tutoring, mentoring, review, etc., I think that adds to the student/teacher relationship and reinforces the students commitment to wanting to do their best.
Regards, Barry
