Extrinsic-avoid it?
What is an appropriate why to warn a student about their progress, if in fact they are close to failing the course? If this can send a negative connatation, isn't it still a necessary extrinsic motivator?
Carrie, some times the right things are the hardest to do. Some students just need to be called out in a respectful manner and reminded nothing worth having comes easy. You are willing to help but they must do the work. In my experience students have the time they need but lack the commitment. They will be more successful if they focus on school and complete their program. They will thank you for being persistent and caring enough to push them forward.
James Jackson
I find it hard to talk to students who are doing poorly in my classes. They all have excuses for their poor academic performance. The most common response I get is test anxiety and then they normally start to cry in my office. I offer tutoring sessions and most do not feel they have the time to come to my office hours.
Sue , thanks for sharing. Getting to know your students will only yield positive results. I have yet to encounter a successful instructor that felt knowing their students well was a negative.
James Jackson
I believe that it is so important to get to know each of my student. Find out a little about their background, interests, difficulties they might have and how do they feel they are doing in this class. I meet with those students that are having a difficult time in the class. I will work with them and then pair them with another student to help them go over the material. Or they will be in a small group, there they can get support from other students.
Kathryn, well stated. If we as educators focus on building professional relationships and getting to know our students, we will be better equipped to read the early warning indicators and provide assistance where the assistance is most needed.
James Jackson
The instructor should be reaching out from day one. As instructors, we should see these signs well before the student reaches the point of failure.
Lisa, if a student is close to failing in a course there should have been several other indicators that were early warning signs of a student at risk. What actions were taken at the first signs the student was struggling with the materials? What relationships exist between faculty and learner support services that can reach out to the student to address the issues of the student's academic progress?
James Jackson
