Hi Sarah,
Good point about knowing some background on each student. This really helps to provide support when needed. Also, it sends the message that you care about their success and are there to help them achieve success if they are willing to put forth the effort.
Gary
I think this is a general statement, you must understand your students in order to create an environment that meets all their needs. It is helpful if you know a little background information about the students such as previous career, why school, why now, and family life..in order to provide encouragement as needed throughout the course. It helps students once they realize you are their to guide them and have been through similar situations and have been successful. They then may feel more confident in their personal situations.
