I believe the human factor is the most important message regarding student retention. Students connect with the subject area by connecting with the instructor. Each person needs to know the instructor is concerned with their progress, and validates their previous learning/life experiences. Each student needs to be acknowledged and his/her contributions validated.
I have found that the human factor cannot be ignored when it comes to retention. A large percentage of the class may do well without the human factor but a smaller percentage does not do well without it. If these students (as well as all students) are not acknowledged then they can feel that there presence is not needed in class.
Very big. Some of the strongest feedback I get from students as that I care about them as people, I helped them build group camraderie, and I let them express themselves. All the while I still feel controlling the environment is essential.
Hi Stephen,
Good point. The students need to know you are a student centered instructor. This will help with the development of rapport and respect so everyone will be comfortable in the class.
Gary
Students need to know that they are an individual first and part of a collective class second. By providing a caring, considerate and respectful learning environment, students tend to feel more comfortable and this makes for a better learning environment overall.
Hi John,
You make an excellent point about the need to maintain the standards of the course while understanding the students. As an instructor you can't compromise the competencies of the course because if you do you are not fulfilling your instructional obligation.
Gary
The human factor of retention deals with the caring and fairness. In an online environment, you will have students who are working 2-3 jobs, single parents, in abusive relationships, sole care taker for other family members, etc...They often have things that will interfere with their education obligations. This is where you have to be caring for their situation but also fair. You need to show your caring side in that you need to help them fulfill the requirements of the course. However, you also need to instruct them that they still must complete the assignments.
I make a point of learning all of my students' names by the end of the first class session.
I go through the roster to take attendance..and then as the students are working on something I will go around the room and try to remember their names..when I am stumped I ask for the first letter of their name as a clue! The students enjoy this little "performance" and creates a relaxed atmosphere.
Hi Stephen,
When I hear this it makes me feel sorry for such instructors. Yes, teaching is hard work and required a lot of effort but the results are so rewarding. We are leaving a legacy by educating the next generation of contributors to our field. Getting to teach about our field and get paid for it besides is as good as it gets. Keep the excitement and don't let them bring you down.
Gary
Hi Debra,
Sounds like you have developed a way to reach out to your students and support them through the online environment. This I know helps to keep them engaged and focused on the course content.
Gary
It truly is amazing that some instructors that I'm acquainted with don't get it. They think that authoritarianism is the only way to fly. Talk about showing lack of respect for their students!
This is very important although is not an easy task in an online classroom environment. As an online instructor it is important to come across as engaging and personable with the students. I try to include lots of positive feedback (and at least one smiley face)along with constructive criticism in my feedback to an assignment.
I respond promptly to all emails and try to be fair and caring when responding to students that have exterior problems and issues.
I am very much in agreement with Melonie's posting. The human factor is extremely important, and Instructor's must be aware of this. I devote my first class entirely to the human factor by having the students briefly introduct themselves and discuss their experiences. I also call their names each class and do keep reassuring them that I understand they have time management issues.
The human factor plays a critical role in successful instruction to adult learners. Many instructors find the human factor rewarding in that we inspire and impact the lives of students in addition to educating them. We are teachers as well as listeners. We try to engage all students to yield academic success.
As with any consumer environment, the human factor is essential for a successfull interaction. The human factor relates to respect for the person and taking their experiences into account. As humans, we all want to be a part of something larger than ourselves, this is especially true when it comes to a learning environment.
Hi James,
This is a great to start a class and get everyone settled into the learning environment. The use of food is always good because it helps students to open up and share more. The opening of a discussion while eating give a casual feel to the setting while covering topics of value to their career. Good approach.
Gary
When I start a new class I always go around the room and have each student tell their name and something about themselves. I have also started to ask what their knowledge is about the subject of the class and what they would like to get out of the class. I also have them talk about what their career path goals for graduation are. I find this helpful to know what the students are looking for and how important this class is to them. I have found that this allows me to get a sense of where the students are at what range of skill sets I am working with so I know what range of students I have and what speed I can teach at. I also tell them a little about me so they know me a little and may have something about in common to talk about. I also have two night that we order in food. While we are eating I try to start a round table discussion in different topics about the class to see what questions may get raised so I can add them into a class plan in future classes. Students seam to really like this and my classes have steadly grown each quarter.
I am new to teaching but not to youth or their challanges. I enjoy getting close to students and their needs. Professional empathy.
Craig Oremus
Yes, I totally agree with you, doing this activity you will remember their names, and will show them that you care.
Hi Joseph,
You make a very good point about connecting with students through the learning of their names. It is powerful as you mention because it shows a level of caring and professionalism that all instructors should demonstrate.
Gary
