Empathy
I think this trait is something all instructors should have. I work will several who seem to have none for their style of teaching. Every human being needs empathy - especially in a learning situation. They should not be set up to fail.
Students need to know that the instructor cares about them personally besides their knowledge of the material. Asking students how they are doing in your course and other scourses is a start. However, if you see a students mood, physical manner or attitidue change from day to day, it is easy to ask if something is wrong or bothering them. Then listen. If most times they just need reassurance that things will be alright if they continue to do the thinge needed. If it is more than that, then suggest they talk with the proper administration personnel to get assistance. They respond well to you efforts.
Hi Art,
The key to rapport and respect is based on what you have outlined in your comments. Getting into their heads and developing an understanding of their goals and career objectives. This is key to student retention and satisfaction.
Gary
Empathy goes by a lot of names: "walking in their shoes", "feeling what they feel", "seeing things from their point of view", etc. I prefer the term "getting into their heads". By that I mean thinking how they do, looking at the world like they do, and even talking like they do. When I can get in their heads, I find the level of communication, and thus learning, goes up exponentially. Getting to really know them as individuals, I find, is the key to getting into their heads.
While it is true that sometimes students make up stories to get what they want. Based on some of the verifiable personal losses that have been shared with me I would rather error on the side of believing and trusting than not. After all who are they cheating but themselves.
No doubt....having the ability of "placing yourself in the shoes" of the student-learner and having the internal flexibility to understand that each student has their own unique skills, learning ability, and limitations, allows an instructor to create a better holistic learning environment.
Empathy is great - just be careful not to fall for some of the stories that students make up. I have had a few who "cry wolf" about everything to every instructor. It's tough to distinguish between real issues and excuses sometimes.
I once was told by a mentor that
"students don't care how much you know until they know you care for them."
I found that empathy towards the students gives them a new incentive for learning.
I totally agree with you on this Michelle. Being considerate, flexible, and showing empathy will motivate students in many ways.
