Mentoring Style
One approach to instruction that I like to use is the mentoring style. With this style I encourage students along the learning process with personalized feed back. I have found that only a small percentage of my students respond as I would expect and become strong indepedent learners. More often I find that leaves my class the same as the way the came in.
How can we make our classroom experience more of a transformational process?
I believe that we, as instructors, can make the classroom environment a more transformative experience by helping students first identify with the material in a practical way and then, soliciting individual life stories about how concepts presented are applicable in their current lives.
I have discovered that when a group of students are personally mentored, their overall learning experience is amplified
Hi Debbi,
Great comments on how to "sell" a class to students. As instructors we enjoy the students that love the class topic and strive to do well each class meeting. The students that just want to pass are the challenging ones. It is fun to try and "win" them over by offering high standards, quality instruction and interesting activities. When some them do catch fire in terms of the course it really boosts excitement for both the instructor and other students.
Gary
I love this question because I think about it from the student point of view. Is this a class that I want to rise above in, is this a class that will allow me to transform my thought process? By thinking of it from the student point of view~ you also have to think of it from both ends of the spectrum. If we think of this from the student who only wants to get through this class because its required to the student who is thriving on the subject. How do you reach both?
I believe its by setting the expectation up front. In my syllabus I have the assumption that they are responsible for their entire learning of the information and processes. I am their to guide and help discover the concepts and ideas, but they are responsible for what they get out of the class.
Hi Michael,
Not sure how to answer your question because I am challenged by my students much the same way. I can see how many of the students miss the opportunity to take themselves to the next level or separate themselves from the herd. There is going to be only about 10% of the students that really rise to the top of the class and will also rise to the top of their profession. They are the ones that "want" it and are willing to work hard to get "it". About 30% of the students will be dedicated students but not necessarily transformed by what they are learning. The remainder of the students put in the time complete the course but never really internalize what they have learned in a global way. I enjoy working with all of the students but I know that they will separate themselves out based upon their personal goals and effort.
Gary
