We have at the begining of our program a course on personal and professional concepts that goes over some of this information with the students. And i am currently working with the program director to initiate a faculty advising system for our students similar to universities but more personal in nature to assist students in findng resources and having a person to go to for personal and academic issues to led them in the right direction. So many of our students have no or very little social "training", or support at home from family or friends, and need more personalized interventions in order to succeed.
I have asked students to draw a large circle, divided like pie pieces,labeling important arenas of life (i.e. support systems like family, work, school, church, peer groups, hobbie groups...) If there are huge gaps, you can then discuss action steps to start building those support systems. This is a good visual tool I used when I had my therapy practice. It 'at a glance' also shows if the pie is really lopsided why your life may be out of balance!
Hi Donna,
I think this is a great way to show students graphically exactly where they are. This then should give them an idea of the support they need and the evaluation of the goals they have set for themselves.
Thanks for sharing it with us.
Will check on Question 3. Thanks for bringing it to our attention.
Gary
Well said...I have always found open, accessable communication is critical to success in any field.
William,
I agree with you!! Whenever I'm setting up a class, I strive to incorporate a group project for students, particularly for the first session. They get a chance to talk to each other and get to know each other, and, as you said, this gives them an opportunity to begin developing support systems.
It also shows them that they're responsible for part of the learning environment, not just me and what I'm saying from the front. In groups, they begin to make decisions about their learning....and it's amazing how that affects the rest of the term!!!
Beth
I think group work is a great way to breakdown initial hesitation for students to build support systems. Adults particularly, should be familiar with collaborative work environments. We just need to encourage this behavior in the classroom.
It may be beneficial for students of dissimilar backgrounds to support each other. For example, an adult learner who has work experience can support a recent high school graduate by explaining how the school work is relevent in the real world. Likewise, the high school graduate can support the adult learner by showing him or her the ropes of school again.
Sometimes it's as simple as making sure new students know about organizations and support on campus. Group work also helps match students up with someone new.
I try to help students to find ways to involve coworkers, friends and family in their learning process, particularly adult students who have a lot on their plates. In fact some of my assignments are specific to having students practice on their closest associates. This brings them more support for their learning process.
Hi Mario,
Your last sentence says it all. We do have to know them so we can create a learning environment that supports and encourages their success. When we do that we then set the stage for the students to put forth the effort to achieve their career goals. This puts the "effort" issue on them. They have to make the effort or they will fail.
Gary
Getting to know the students is essential to understanding their needs, challenges, and what they have to offer to others. Rapport is important for strengthening ties with them and recognizing problems and suggest resources to help them. You have to know them to help them.
Talk to student about the people in their day to day life, explain to the student the people they surround themselves with needs to be positive poeple that encourage growth and gives them postive feedback.
Yes, it works well. Also, I see that this was recommended as well (by the class)
Hi Vivian,
Good way to start the class off. This way you learn about the students and they learn about each other. This sets the stage for the upcoming course in a comfortable and supportive way.
Gary
By trying to get know what their needs are.
Hello James,
I too, do this with my learners. When one takes this approach, others immediately see that the instructor truly cares for them.
Is there ever time a instructor cares too much? How is privacy and caring balanced?
Chris
Hello,
One of the ways I would aid students in identifying personal support systems is by encouraging them to find a hobby that they enjoy, and take time to enjoy that hobby with friends and family if possible. Additionally, many of my current students have families, so I would encourage them to spend time with them when the chance is available, that is, after large projects or assignments.
During the first class I always go around the room to ask the students about themselves. They fill out a card with their name and contact info but I also ask they to explain why they are taking the course and what they what to be? I then ask specific questions to each of them that apply to their answers . This allows students to self sort into groups that they are the most comfortable. They make friends and help each other in the learning process.
Hi Terrie,
It is always interesting working with cohort groups due to the dynamics that occur as the groups solidify. Your groups sound like they know how to operate and progress together. Be the instructor of groups like this has to be enjoyable because you can see them progress as a group.
Gary
Those are good words of wisdom. Everything changes.
