I show a genuine interest in my students and their goals...
I have found that I have more success with the students by having a genuine interest in them and their goals. I can understand, to some extent, what they are going through being students and life happening outside the classroom.
I like this topic because I can relate to it. When you show interest in students goals and explain to them the connection that they have with your own personal experience, they're more successful because they see that they are not alone on their journey.
To show genuine interest in my students, I have to be a good listener So many student need someone that they can express their thoughts and concerns to. Students have said that they feel that they have been really heard and that I, as their instructor really care about what they have to say
Hi Anthony,
I can tell you sincerely care about your students. I am sure your students appreciate you. You should be able to voice your concerns to higher authority.
Patricia
I have seen the same results. However, it can be bad if a student notices your support for another student and feels that you are not supporting them or are favoring another. I try to make sure to show it equally. It can be a challenging task.
I genuinely want my students to succeed, and have found that a personal interest aids in giving them confidence. If I was a student, a teacher taking an interest in my goals would validate my capabilities or potential. The drawback is that it affects me when they don't succeed or when they give up.
Also, the school admins do not have the daily interaction I have with the students and therefore are not as driven to help them improve (or deal with any of their issues). This builds a wall between myself and some co-workers and also causes the students to vent to me. It's not a competition, but my tolerance, respect, and understanding in dealing with those who don't care is wearing thin. I wish I had some input as to how to make this better without seeming self-rightous.
Hi Jennifer,
What a great way to get to know your students.
Patricia
I have found that by creating a “Getting to Know You” Discussion Board really helps to build a relationship with the students. This starts out as a simple post but over a semester evolves into the coffee lounge as students go to chat with each other and me.
Hi Keith,
You're right! So many are in it just to get a check. Teaching should be one's passion because so many lives are at stake.
Patricia
Hi Jimmy,
As educators we must be caring, sympathetic, as well as empathetic. Students immediately pick up when we care, and it means a lot to them for us to care.
Patricia
It's great to hear that someone actually cares,so
many are just looking for payday.
Hi Mary,
It is important to acknowledge students by their name. Students feel important whenever you know their name.
Patricia
Hi Diane,
The personal definitely has to be separated from the professional.
Patricia
I think this is the basis of being a successful teacher, we have to understand who we are teaching without getting too personally involved.
It also helps to address the students by name in chat sessions. When providing examples, I use the names of the students in the class. In the first class of the session, I ask students to introduce themselves and discuss what their career goals are, in a Discussion Board I create just for this purpose.
