Assessing Students' Fears
What are some effective ways at gauging student's unique fears or concerns at the very beginning of a course? Is it appropriate to ask students, either in class or on a written questionnaire, to express their personal anxieties about the course and their ability to succeed? And how can we go about addressing students' unique needs without granting them special allowances and without prying too much into their personal lives?
I love this idea. In another lesson the idea of using notecards was brought up. I will use this method throughout the course. Usually at the beginning, middle, & end. I will have some variation on the questions pending the class, but besides demonstrating to students what they have gained in the course it also helps keep me motivated and alert to concerns that may be occurring. It will focus me on which areas modifications or enhancements would be helpful.
I love the idea of asking "what do you see as the biggest challenge in this class?" using anonymous 3x5 cards.
I teach online, so anonymity is hard to accomplish.
This is a great method for getting a feel for the students and not having them use their names should make them feel more comfortable.
Hi Lisa,
Good idea. Thanks for sharing it with us.
Gary
I think that having a questionnaire is a great response. When having open discussions students are more likely to not open up and be forth coming about certain fears that they may have. I think that the student’s personal life will be shared if they feel the need to. I think that answering questions and being an open communicator will promote a positive environment for them to feel safe to share certain information.
I use a 3x5 index card with name and some likes and dislikes of each student. I ask what they want to accomplish in the course and ask if they have any concerns. I also use these cards and pick out random cards when people don't want to participate.
Hi Amy,
With so many different situations entering our classes each day it is a must that we have a policy on how we are going to operate the class and handle assignments. You make a very good point about how to get information about students in a way that informs you the instructor while helping them to see how they are going to be successful in the course.
Gary
An introduction and goal assignment is a great way to assess needs of students and find out more about the student. I like to have students introduce themselves within a DB or paper form(DB is best for class interaction also I encourage students to send any personal concerns via email). Introductions and career goals are utilized to provide more individualized feedback and improve my ability to relate to the student.
Many of the issues students face are surprising and I do find it difficult not to grant special allowances. Hence, policy development is a must.
Amy Branch
Hi George,
I ask them some of the following questions.
1. What are your career goals?
2. What do you want to get out of this class?
3. What experiences and knowledge do you bring to the class?
4. What do you see as the biggest challenges in this class?
5. What kind of support will help you to be successful in the course?
You can expand on these general questions as needed to get the information to see where your students are and how the view the course.
Gary
Great idea. What kind of questions do you ask your students?
Hi Geoff,
I use a simple student survey where I ask some basic questions about the upcoming course and how the students see themselves fitting into the course. I have them write their comments on 5X7 cards and hand them in. They don't put their names on them so they are more open with their comments. After reviewing their comments I have a clear picture of the types of students I have in the course. This really helps me with my planning.
By developing rapport with the students I am able to gain insight into some of the issues that are happening in their lives without having to intrude. The key is to be friendly and accessible.
Gary
We review all the problems other students have had and give examples of what caused students to fail. We give examples of how thises things could have been avoided and discuss having back up systems in place. This opens the door for students to come and discuss possible problems.
