Trying to relate to students' struggles
I anticipate having some trouble connecting with some students and relating to their struggles, due to being from different bacgrounds. I don't have kids, so I can't fully appreciate how hard that is and the problems it can bring up. I don't want to take that as an excuse for absences, but I don't want to be a jerk about it either. Any thoughts?
What a wonderful idea. We all forget why we are doing something. Keeping our goal or reason in front of us helps keep us on point.
Sara Donevant
Hi Thomas,
Life happens! It happens with students as well as with instructors. Life happens with everyone, and as long as we live, it will continue to happen. Our students have to realize when challenges occur, you continue to press forward because sunshine will come soon.
Patricia
What a great idea. It can help reinforce the reasons they got into higher education in the first place.
Hi Barrie,
I love it! Super idea. We better keep the dream alive. Thank you for not giving up on the student.
Patricia
I chose this discussion because I can and do relate to students, I too returned to shool as a single parent. I had the responsibility of three children, and a household to maintain. What I learned that I attempt to share with students is the skill and stratagey of compartmentalizing life. When I was at school, I intentionally focused on my class, and those requirements. As an instructor I have incorporated this as learning module. When students understand how the mastery of this technique benefits their learning experienc they usually embrace it. In the real world business requires focus. Betsy Monroe
Life is a struggle! I have a student that gave me excuses as to why he misses classes. I told him and the program director I would not allow him back in my class until he writes me a paper on his future dreams. He was required to share these dreams with his wife and me. He did that and with the effort of the school we work through his excuses and he is back and doing well. My motto is, Keep the Dream Alive
students have life resonsibilities- I try to give them some time to start homework/projects during school. This helps me know they understand the assignment or project, it helps them manage their time. Most of the time they can get a headstart or almost finish. More assisnment are turned in on time, students are reviewed, more knowledgable about classwork and confident. Good for both of us
We have our students bring in a 'focus' for why they are in college. Be it a photo of a child, a business plan, etc. This helps them to remember why they are here and that whatever struggles they are experiencing, they need to focus on their goal and complete their training.
Hi Peter,
I have two children and have been teaching for over 21 years. Life happens...but the real world still goes on. We cannot lower standards because of struggles. Their employers are not going to expect any less of them as employees becauses of life's struggles. We must prepare our students for the workplace.
Patricia
