Motivation
When a student gets off to a bad start of the class or falls behind after a few weeks, what techniques are effective other than opening lines of communication? Most times people feel awkward about opening up to much and, as a teacher I don't want to push the issue if it is a personal matter.
Hi Lisa,
You make a very good point about student support. I think the amount and kind of student support is dependent on the students you have at any one time. Some of my students are independent learners and have little need for support while others have backgrounds that don't support their being successful in college. I try to get these students off to a successful start and keep supporting them while they develop the skills necessary for college and career success.
Gary
I am going to be honest but I feel we are not helping students in the long run if we are constantly giving them reminders and "hand holding." These students are focusing on getting a better job in a career of their dreams. Their boss is not going to remind them to get a project done or a report finished by the end of the week.
While I feel assignemnts and deadlines should be located on a calendar that students can easily access, beyond that, I feel that it is not the instructor's job to send constant reminders about due dates. However, having a welcoming open door policy to answer questions has been very successful for me.
Try to remind them of the end game payoff. It may be as simple as portrying an aura of being successful and joyful at the conclusion of a project or something larger. Let them know how much added value they can and will obtain by simply showing up and learning.
I constantly like to remind students the rewards of finishing the course successfully. In my experiences, I have notice that many students choose the medical billing and coding to have the ability to work from home. I remind the student that it is a real possibility and it is also very rewarding. I should know because I work from home myself.
Hi Michael,
In addition to the communication process as you mention you can give examples of how the students can be successful. Since they have already fallen behind they can benefit from having worksheets or other supports that will help them to catch up bit by bit until they are even with everyone else in the course. The key is them knowing you are there to help and support them if they are willing to put forth the effort.
Gary
