The term Tutoring does not fare well with many of the students I have had in class that were struggling. I have found that offering study sessions where sevral students get together after class or before class and discuss what they are having trouble understanding. As we discuss the answers students seem to help others students by giving a different perspective or so called speaking a different language. The conversation from peer to peer and from Instructor to student are quite different.
Working with students with learning needs can be very difficult. I like to schedule a time to meet with the student so that they get the one on one attention. It really helps boost their confidence and since it is private then the whole class does not know.
Finding a mode that works for the student is important. My problem is having the patience to find and then use that mode or modes regularly with a student. I find it works better for me if I can have some one on one time right before class with the student to prep them for class.
The best strategies for working with students with learning needs is to provide an enviroment where the dont feel they will be embarrassed by another student if they ask a question.
Shannon,
I agree that any time we can give that extra attention & help to those who are struggling, it is of great benefit.
Dr. Ryan Meers
just observe who's is haveing a had time and give a little more attention to them
I have worked before and/or after classes one-on-one with students that needed the extra help. My students enjoy additional handouts/worksheets to feel more comfortable with the information they are learning. I make sure I include those students in class discussion. I think those students really feel part of the class when they are included on a frequent basis.
Maria,
yes the more senses we can teach to or the more varied methods we can use, the greater the chance of success.
Dr. Ryan Meers
Since I am high tone deaf, I wear hearing aids. Some of my own hearing problem is comprehension. I find that if the speaker can rephrase a statement a few different ways, I can understand. I use this with students to help them feel at ease, knowing I have a difficult time understanding also.
Multisensory approaches. Involve sight and sound and touch as much as possible.
Barbara,
I think the key in what you are saying here is a willingness to be available to & help the students.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I try to find time for a bit of tutoring before or after class. I also try to present math procedures several different ways. Students who give up in math classes at the elementary level never seem to try again. By finding several methods of solving problems and letting the student pick the method he likes best, I've seen exciting results.
Identification of the need is essential, with frequent feedback, grasping of the material, and performance of the practical aspects.
Mokii,
this is a great strategy & a great example of really trying to help your students as much as possible.
Dr. Ryan Meers
Warren,
you are so right. No matter how "smart" we are, we must have those interpersonal skills.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I like to give visual aids along with examples and stories that relate to the course. I spend extra time after class to go over the days notes. This helps me know if they are getting and understanding the material.
For me it's always important in the first 1-2 days of a new class to "Learn" who my students are. Once I can interact with new students I now know where I need to be to work with each student individually. It's amazing how just getting to know your students how learning needs are basically the same from person to person. I see the needs being somewhat common but the approach for each student can be different. No book/study can prepare you for how to work with the needs of each student. I think that is something that you learn from working with people.
you have to be first identify them in a timely manner, not towards the end of the course, but from the beginning of the course. Meet with them regularly on a routine bases and provide tutoring.
When working in groups, I assign students with learning needs in groups with students who do not have learning needs. They often learn well with other students. I also make one-on-one time available to any students who want help.
I always encourage students with learnig needs to ask for help. I ask students to never misunderstand a term or concept in their readings. I encourage the student to come to me for any terms they do not understand; one word can change the whole meaning of a sentence if it is not defined and applied correctly. Helping students with learning needs is so rewarding.
