Can students modify behavior after their first semester in class?
There are many nontraditional students who attend class the first day with frustrations, fears, and little skill, but go on to learn, by time that they can achieve their goals, add to their life experiences and even build strong friendships with their peers. This stems form a supportive instructor, a healthy class environment, adhering to clear rules, being fair, acceptance by classmates, encouragement, and motivation.
Amanda,
Since you might be that person you need to see yourself as a role model for your field. So your dress, language, conduct and approach needs to reflect what a professional in your field would do. This shows your students the level they need to strive for as they themselves develop into professionals ready to enter the field.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I never considered that I may be the first person a student may know in our field. I hope that I am making a positive impression on my students. I've had some discouraged students this term so the advice on motivation has been helpful.
Elaine,
This is a good point that students need to grasp. College is not high school so the rules have changed. There is a level of expectation that goes with them being in college. They need to meet that level. In addition, it is up to the student to be successful since the stakes are high, meaning their future is on the line. Once they understand that then the learning process can proceed.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I have seen some very problem students make a big turnaround after a term or two, and it is usually because someone has set an ultimatum. They might realize that the alternative is to fail or drop out. So suddenly, instead of being late or missing class, and instead of not paying attention or always trying to change the subject in class, they might suddenly appear like a model student. But it takes either the instructor or other counselor at the school to give them an ultimatum.
Most students have the ability to adapt because they have set goals for themselves. The goals are to help them have a focus spot. Will all students be able to modify after the first semester. Well it will depend on realistic and obtainable goals and whether they are really ready to work hard to achieve it.
Todd,
Yes it is. A business leader is quoted as saying "We are the average of the five people we spend the most time with.". Many of our students have not had positive role models in their lives or if they have they have not had anyone from their career area that they knew. We may be the first person they have gotten to know and worked with that represents their career field. It is critical that we model the language, dress, and conduct of our field.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree. I actually think it is more rare for a student not to alter their behavior in some way after the first term/semester. Our job, as instructors, is to facilitate that change in a positive direction.
If we give them the tools for success, they will use them. If we give them excuses and model poor behavior, they will use that as well. Change is inevitable, making it positive change is the key.
All of those strategies you mention help foster positive change. That is definitely the road we ned to be on.
Abeer,
You have done a good job of describing how an instructor to plan for and approach the classroom. Your suggestions give balance to your instructional delivery in a way that gets the students engaged throughout the duration of the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
