Kim,
A simple concept that is very powerful. We need to always keep this in mind as we approach the classroom.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Joel,
Good point about the value of bringing examples into the instructional setting. This helps the students to see relevance and application of what they are being asked to learn. This increases their motivation in relation to being successful as well.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Students all come to school for a reason, some to get out of a bad situation or to better themselves. The human factor plays apart in this by allowing us to feel empathy and sympathy to our students while providing a great education. Most students want an education,but also they want us to be compassionate as well. We have to show empathy and sympathy, while we give a great education. This will also show our students that out in the workforce, they to should show this to their fellow co-workers.
It is very important! I have often times over-heard a student speak of the reason they want to drop a class. The major reason was they felt that they could not meet the expectations of that instructor nor could they relate to that instructor. Remembering that I was once an adult learner helps give me insight to the students. I simply try to treat the student how I wanted to be treated when I was an adult learner.
This is very important. The more personal and real experience you can apply with what you are teaching with keep thier attention more and they will believe in you more as an intstructor.
Robert,
Good for you. The students need to know they must be forth the effort if they are going to be successful. You will be there to support them but it is up to them to work hard if they are going to enjoy success.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Krista,
Well said. Nothing breeds success like success. Knowing they have a caring and dedicated instructor and that they can actually pass the course if they put forth the effort greatly increases the motivation level.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Letting the student know that your work is geared toward making them successful.
Extremely important...but it doesn't mean students should be coddled. I value good work and positive participation and make that clear
It is very important. If students don't feel like they are cared about, they will not want to try as hard and they will not feel as though they are important enough to do well.
Rene,
Listening is a lot of teaching as you know based upon your comments. By listening we are showing empathy with our students which enables us to encourage and support their learning success. We can't change their personal situations but we can help them have school success if they are willing to put forth the effort.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Crystal,
I compliment you for your rapport with your students. This is a great compliment that is being paid to you when they say "I want to take another class with you." I believe this is one of the rewards of being an instructor. We are making a difference in the lives of our students.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Sympathy is very important to a student wanting to stay in school. Many of the students I have encountered are at times embarassed about their home situation. They have low income, no home to go to. I try to let the students talk to me about their problems so they know I am not judging them for their problems. If they feel as if they have someone to come back and talk to they will be more likely to return. They also feel like they are respected as a human being. It's almost as if they have a place to get away from their problems.
It is paramount. I make an effort to learn every one of my students' names by the time the first class meeting is over. They NEED this; it makes them feel important. When I see them in the halls or the library, I address them by name and ask them about their families, jobs, courses, etc. It makes a world of difference when a students see you are genuinely concerned about their progress. They say "I want to take another class with you." Great - I'll see you here next semester! :)
The human factor is the most important factor in retention because as humans individuals need to feel respected and that someone cares about their well being. Also, it is important for them to feel comfortable in their environment.
Yes, this is what I've always believed and how I try to teach.
For many students, class is their only escape from the reality of their life. It is their refuge from all the problems they have. We need to ensure that we are not adding to their problems by not treating them fairly and encouraging them to do their best. If you do that, they will keep coming back each and every day.
I often see students with similar situations in my classes - it's hard sometimes to see how to retain students when such seemingly insurmountable obstacles appear in their lives...I find great value in maintaining the "human side" of the relationship - if you can't eliminate the outside obstacles, you can at least support the individual encountering them...
As a instructor of 5 years, you can not for get to have fun and make sure the students are enjoying what they are learning. This creates a pleasant environment for everyone.
Human beings connect with human beings. Management by definition means getting along with people. If the students don't like the instructor because he doesn't care about the students chances are the students will not do as well.
