How to be approachable
Some student aren't alway approachable, how can one get pass the student attitude and help them anyway?
I let them know, that Im available.
I share my personal professional experiences including the failures Ive faced in order for them to understand, that Im not sitting on some "Cloud" some where, Ive been in their placed (Being a Student) at some point in my life.
I never let anything get in the way of being there for them, even if I have grades due (or past due), that I have to do, copies to make. NOTHING is more important then supporting my Students.
I NEVER ever put them in a situation where anything that they tell me about of a "Confidential" or not nature is a in "Ear Shot" of any other Student, I dont want any one of them to become embarrased or feel belittled.
I learn to respect them for the unique individuals that they are.
I never publicly admonish or discipline them or give any corrective actions or suggestion in public. I dont want them to become embarrased, some will and some wont, but I dont want to run that risk or they will shut down on me and some will consider me unapproachable for this.
SMILE- Its that simple, crack a smile some times, showing some teeth shows that your human, have feelings and it sets people at ease.
Time to time ask for their input on things, it makes the feel as if they are actually participating in their own education.
I really like this idea. I also use hypothetical situations or generalizations to bring up issues some students may be facing and give ideas for ways of effectively handling it. At the end I give a reminder of when I am available outside of class for any student who needs additional assistance or one on one time with me.
Hi Zibigniew,
Good plan. It is always a challenge to draw out quite students and you have found a way to do just that. Keep up the good work.
Gary
I use last few minutes for "life experiances" where I can adress an issue without adressing specific student. It seems to draw unapprochable student into dialog that time or in neer future. My course lasts only 3 weeks so that situation come up alot, and this avenue seems to reach about half of students. I have had some come to talk months later also.
Let the students know you understand every situation and every individual
One on ones are very stressful.
Hi Rochelle,
One on one discussions and rapport development are two things I work hard on. I don't let their attitude discourage me from being nice and approachable. If they don't respond after a period of time I continue my effort but I focus on the other students that are trying and putting forth the effort. I won't neglect my dedicated students for a few students with poor attitudes.
Gary
