Hi Joy,
This is important point that every instructor needs to keep in mind. Students that feel on the "outside" will quit much easier. If they see an instructor that cares about them and their success then they will stay engaged longer leading to successful course completion.
Gary
When they feel accepted, they feel more secure. Having a sense of security leaves room for the students to push themselves academically.
its important for students to feel accepted because they will feel as if they are a part of the school and not just a number. when students feel as if they are accepted - then they are more apt to do other activities too around the school campus- for instance- join a club or something. In the classroom they will be comfortable and at ease to be able to study and concentrate
they need ot be un a nuuring environment where they feel comfortable to ask questions
I agree Ana, if a student feels comfortable among thier peers it will give them a better learning experience.
When students feel accepted in class they feel comfortable within the learning envirionment. It allows for mistakes or errors to be used as a learning experience.
Hi Bonnie,
As social interaction is a critical part of the learning process putting the students into different groups throughout the course gives them a chance to work with different individuals. This also prepares them for working with others when they are in the work place. We know this but sometimes students think that they are going to get to choose their fellow workers and this isn't the case. The social challenge of work has to be dealt with just as much as the actual work.
Gary
I notice when students start school they tend to become part of a small group. They find someone who is like them so they can feel comfortable and accepted. I like to break them up from those little groups from time to time so they can get to know other students. What I do is have them count 1-4 and place the ones together twos together etc. and it give them a chance to work on an asignment and see the other students learning style and personality. They tend to step out of that safety zone they created.
Feelings of acceptance apply to most situations that involve large amounts of social interaction, and usually makes a person feel more comfortable with social interactions. I think it probably has to do with trusting others and becoming more willing to open up and share one's experiences with the group. It also helps the learner develop self-esteem and confidence which the number one predictor of success.
I feel that if a student is accepted they will feel comfortable and comfort is a basic need. If a student can get over the fear of acceptance than they can focus thier efforts on learning.
Students need to feel accepted so they can focus on the course of study. If they feel out of place, then their focus is on them, not the course material. The best way to handle this issue is to set a good tone on the first day of class. I normally ask students what is there favorite motorcycle, I ask this, because I teach in a Motorcycle program. If the student is able to to talk about something they love or enjoy it loosens them up, and most of the time others will positivly respond to different bikes.
Hi Whitney,
Good point about acceptance. This is so important in the development of rapport and career growth. They have to be open to becoming a part of the learning process which enable them to develop throughout the course.
Gary
It is my job to help students feel accepted at first and their job to allow themselves to be accepted. It is a two-step process that begins with their knowing that they are in a safe environment where they can be empowered to take chances, try new things, and proceed without the fear of failure or ridicule. This acceptance enables them to get to the next level by helping them to build confidence and overcome their inhibitions, which will lead to a much greater level of success in the end.
Amongst many strategies that can be used in a classroom setting, learning using games and other fun-based activities does help discover talent and skills that may be hidden from traditional lecture settings. Those who are not academically inclined or who do not have much interest in my lecture come alive when they are learning with each other using a game setting. It sometimes draws on a competitive spirit and also helps other students recognize and accept talent in an otherwise non-engaged student.
Hi Richard,
I like your stance. Setting and maintaining high standards results in increase understanding by students of the importance your attach to excellence and effort. This is what is going to help them when they enter their careers.
Gary
I give all my students respect and they know that but as a master Guild Technician in automotive I have a wealth of knowledge in my field and I will tell them I expect their best in class and lab so they can be the best in thier field and knowledge is power.
It is important because they need to feel part of the group and be interactive whith the teacher.Whith this participatioin they have better chanse to success
This adds to their belongingness level of motivation. By feeling accepted, the student feels more open to getting involved in the learning process.
Hi Richard,
The connection between acceptance and success revolves around retention. If students don't feel a part of the class structure or that the instructor doesn't care about their success then it is much easier to drop out. It reinforces their decision to quit because it isn't their fault it is the fault of the college or the instructor. Our culture is into blame shifting so the students are well versed in such a technique. By helping the students to become involved in the course and feeling a part of the learning community the dropout factor is reduced.
The scientific or statistical method used is based upon accrediting standards that set the bar for what constitutes a successful program completer.
Some students are motivated to the level that being accepted into the class or by peers does not matter. They have their personal goals and will efficiently work toward achieving them not matter the setting. Generally the numbers are not to high for this group.
Gary
Adult learners need to feel confortable and accepted before thaey can be in mindset for learning.
