Understanding Student Characteristics
This module reminded me to seek out each of my student's similarities and differences.
Mabelle Joy,
Thank you for these comments about the value and benefit of knowing as much as you can about the students that are currently enrolled in your class. The more we instructors know the more accurately we can plan our instructional delivery and support. You are zeroing in on this through your efforts. Well done.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
This module has confirmed my personal belief that as an instructor, it is very important to understand the characteristics of my students and provide opportunities for them to share their knowledge and experiences and give them the support they need when necessary. I have used several short activities (which I always do in my Psychology classes) to give me more information on how my students respond to different activities. This way, I can approach a student based on my personal evaluation of his/her characteristics. So far, my personal evaluation is working well because I get positive responses from my students.
Michelle,
I do this form of introduction as well along with some ice breakers so that by the time we finish the first class meeting the students feel comfortable with each other and understand how the course is going to be conducted.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
In understanding my students better I start out a new class with an open forum of inttoducing themselves and why are you here? The students seem to be interested in each others info
Michelle
Geoffrey,
Your approach is supportive and encouraging for all your students. This is so important if they are to become engaged in the learning process. I am sure your students appreciate your efforts to help them see how they fit into the class.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I have done the same in my classes. What I have found interesting is that some of the students are more than willing to share about their culture, upbringing, past experiences, etc. while others are more reluctant. I try to set a mood within the classroom of both comfortablility and trust. Once a student has shared some characteristic about themselves I try to refer to it as an example of what I may be teaching (if it is applicable). It is amazing how many times we will be reviewing for a quiz and such, and I will mention a topic or term, and a student will say, "Like when (student A) told us about..."
Marsha,
A simple process that has great outcomes. The more we know the more we can operate with. So knowing more about each other we can interact at a level that provides the support we need to expand engagement with fellow students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree. One of the ways I allow my students to find out about one another is to ask about a celebration within there culture. What takes place. Are there special foods, clothing, music etc. I also ask about previous jobs/careers they may have had, previous schools they have attended or hobbies and family lifestyle.
Darilyn,
What are some ways you think you are going to seek out these student characteristics?
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
