Reducing student anxiety about your course
You reduce student anxiety about your course by letting them know that you are a good listener, your are always available for help, and that you are commited to making sure that their learning is as easy as possible.
Hi Ondrea,
Fear of the unknown is very nerve racking! Students are more at ease when they know what to expect.
Patricia
In addition to that I believe thoroughly explaining to them the course requirements and breaking down exactly what is expected of them gives them a more clear picture of what they need to do. I myself feel more relieved when i know what lies ahead of me. Fear of the unknown can scare anxious students away.
Hi Philip,
Great pointers as to how to reduce student anxiety. I like how you give various means of getting in touch with you. I've known some instructors to even give their home telephone number.
Patricia
You can help reduce student anxiety the first class meeting by carefully discussing the syllabus, requirements, and expectations--and openly answering the students' questions. Discuss clearly policies and procedures that will be followed. Let students know how they can get in touch with you via various means.
Phil
