I like to award my students with certificates and merit pins. They always look forward to the ceremony and our whole department makes a big deal out of it. The students absolutely love it.
It is the instructors job. I agee! If we cant keep people in those chairs, then we
Thank you Dr. Meer and Jim I remember when i was in school many years ago the teachers didn't reward for anything, I also reward the adult students for a job well done at the end of very difficult terms thanks
I call all missing student with a concern for their success and reminding them that missed work is posted on their portal.
I answer all emaills and phone calls promptly.
I convey a caring attitude in my voice.
Mikel,
So true. Listening is a two way street so by listening to them they will respect us and will listen a a greater extent as you deliver the course content.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
The more we are open and understanding the more they will listen.
Intimidation also can be related to the content of the material been teach, have notice that the more the student understand a topic the more confident they fill, wich help the the filling of intimidation fade.
This is alot of great information.A personal connection is so important to let them know you are concerned about thier success
Linda,
This personal attention is so important to the support of students as well as their retention in school. You have a good plan for providing such support with the strategies you listed.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
i also call when a student is not in school. I usually tell them that I was worried that something might have happened to them.Some students are shy about asking a guestion they are aware that they can put a note in my mailbox and I will answer the question. We also take a 3 min break every 15/20 min. to talk about they want to chare with the class.
i also call when a student is not in school. I usually tell them that I was worried that something might have happened to them.Some students are shy about asking a guestion they are aware that they can put a note in my mailbox and I will answer the question. We also take a 3 min break every 15/20 min. to talk about they want to chare with the class.
Melissa,
I think it is fun as an instructor to be creative in finding the relevant material and then putting it into a format that is engaging for the students. This makes teaching a joy each time we work with students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Agreed, if we provide relevant interesting material then students will want to be in class.
I agree. As instructors we must remember that our behavior reflects on a student opinion of coming to class and listening. It is important that we stay positive and recognize each students needs.
I agree! We must be seen as the "leader" but showing the huma side is also a key. At the beginning of a class, I have the students introduce themelves and tell something about themselves After this, I give them the chance to ask me questions about my personal life.
Elaine,
Thank you for these good comments about student comfort in a class. They need to feel accepted and respected for who they are and what they can contribute to the class. From there on out it is a building process.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Adam, this is great advice. I believe we win them or lose them during the first session. I like to review my roster before my first class, explore the students' records and ask academic advisors for insight into the students' needs, etc. It has worked for me.
Conducting a class within a social setting tends to ease discomfort among students. Cooperative learning techniques can develop and nurture students' capabilities to become independent, self-directed and self-motivated learners. Young students get inspired from non-traditional students' work and life experiences relevant to their goals while their youthful enthusiasm and eagerness in the classroom become contagious, thereby creating a classroom atmosphere where respect, acceptance, and support for one another pervade.
Tracy,
A very good point to remember. We need to display the human aspect so our students will be comfortable with approaching us for help and/or advice.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
If an instructor is not approachable, the student may not be able to address concerns and could fail a class despite their efforts. Instructors should be fair and caring and approachable so that students can achieve success.
