Knowing why a student is enrolled is definately a powerful piece of information. I use that information to help motivate a student that is "falling off a bit". I have found that respectfully reminding them of the "why" helps get the "what" done!
Hi William,
I agree with your comments in relation to knowing why a student is enrolled. It really does help with our understanding of how they will be approaching the course. It also helps us to understand the type of motivational support they may need.
Gary
Hi Joyce,
So true. Simple but the key reason why we are teachers in the first place. We are impacting the futures of our students.
Gary
Hi Joyce,
Yes, you will. You will be able to customize your instructional delivery more as well. The more you know about your students the better you will be able to target your instruction.
Gary
I think it makes a bif difference. When you know why a student has enrolled it gives you insight to their mindset and what they are expecting and wanting to accomplish.
I agree it is all about helping them to reach their goal and to redirect as necessary.
I think by talking to the students and getting a a feel for why they enrolled will help me as an instructor to identify the students goal and potential. I will be better able to help them to reach their goal and to help them to seethe big picture and to remain focused on the goal at hand.
Knowing why students have enrolled in the program helps with planning instruction by better providing examples or information that will be tailor made to best relate to the individual needs in the class.This will enhance understanding of the material, and help the students relate and put themselves directly into the material.
I agree with Linda. Some of my classes have such a hodge-podge of students that I have to motivate some more than others.
Knowing the reasons for a student to enroll is a great help in the classroom. I have some night adult learners that are only enrolled for the paper. They may already have the nice job and are just looking to better themselves on paper. Knowing this is a big help in the classroom when doing lab based skills that they may know but will enjoy more when helping other students in the class. On the other hand when students enroll say just because they are getting funded from a lost job may only be there to extend their benefits. These student tend not to try as hard and can really hold back a class if they are not motivated. You can then look for other ways to help motivate them other than stating you are paying for this why not reap the benefits. Last, we have the younger students that enroll only due to a family member telling them you must go to school. These students are the ones that hide and often have bad attendance, quiz, exam grades etc... These students can be challenging to not have the lazy attitude propogate to the rest of the class.
I always ask this question of the incoming students as a group to get a feel for their reasons for enrolling, as well to establish a common bond with other students who maybe share their reasons...I like knowing if they have family or friends in the field and use this information as a general group discussion on any experiences they, or someone they know has had in this field.
Knowing the reasons that students enroll is very helpful. As a facilitator we can gear instruction towards meeting their goals and expectations. This can help with keeping the students motivated and excited about coming to school.
Dr. Meers and John, Thank you making this point about a caring instructor. If we as instructors, are
able, confident and even passionate in our ability to communicate the subject matter, then our students are more likely to engage themselves, build rapport and trust in the instructor not only professionally but also as a fellow human being.
Dr. Meers, Yes, unfortunately this action is sometimes necessary for the success of the class as a whole. Ultimately it is the student's choice to succeed or 'defer'. As professional educators we strive for success with , as you stated, the student's best interest in mind. Thank you. Robert
Hi Fred,
I think I need to take your course because I cannot make sense of anything related to health insurance in my personal life. But, I am sure you hear that from many of the people you work with.
As for your teaching method, good job. As complex and technical as much of what you are teaching is, having a way for your students to acquire the knowledge so they are comfortable in discussing it is to be commended.
Gary
It helps me best understand their needs with regards to the subject matter. I teach health insurance so I give them an overview of the health insurance industry and the importance of registering insurances correctly. I give them scenario's of the causes and effects of proper vs improper data. I did deeply into the various insurances to give them a thorough understanding of the subject such that when interview time comes, the answers can roll off their tongue!
Hi Danielle,
Good way to poll your class to get a read on why they are there. I like your method of providing support for those students with challenges because this way they will have a chance for success if they are willing to invest the effort.
Gary
Hi Robert,
I agree with you. No one student has the right to derail the education of others. I have removed students that have refused to work within the course requirements and behaviors. I had a much better class as a result of the removal because the other students realized I had their best interest in mind.
Gary
Hi Robert,
Thank you for the good points about how to "read" the reasons for student enrollment. This can be a great aid as you mentioned for customizing your instruction to meet that specific group of students.
Gary
When I begin a new session I like to go around the class and ask everyone why are they here. That way I know what motivated the students in the first place. If I have a student is sitting in class because their parole officer is making them do something to better themselves I know that student may need extra support to stay focused. Therefore, I prepare mentally how I will address these students as individuals.
