I think I would do two things: First, I would respond on the thread something like: boy, the things you're feeling right now is has been common for where we are at this point in the program. What's amazing is that your determination and persistence is clear(maybe from your bio posted.) I was so impressed by the array of experiences and skills in this class... You've got great classmates and tons of resources for you...hang in there.
My reasoning for responding in thread is that it may offer a sense of moral support for others that are feeling the same way who haven't voiced it and it may elicit support from his/her classmates.
The second thing I would do is to send a private email to the person extending an offer to help in any way he/she may need.
The danger in my first choice: it could open up a long thread of "yeah, I felt this way......yadda yadda yadda." But I'm pretty direct at that as well: once the support has been substantiated...I would nix it by saying...Ok...it's time to get back to the original question.
Stephanie,
Very good. All correction needs to be done out of the public arena. However, I would recommend e-mail within the LMS or hosted by the institution. Sometimes students may not remember the discussion the same way you do. Therefore, an accessible record needs to be available to validate the content of the discussion in case a dispute arises after the fact. Very good approach. Thank you for sharing.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I would use postive reinforcement and I would also encourage the student's to carry this conversation outstide of the chat room and I would prefer to discuss problems via email
Amie,
Creating a learning community by engaging students in a one to many dynamic is often very helpful. The peer engagement component is a great one to foster. Very good.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I would send an e-mail directly to Learner 1 to reassure him/her of the expectations of the course and their ability to meet the expectations. I would try to identify any issues that the student is experiencing and see if I can provide support myself or through other venues. If possible, I would contact the student by phone to try and build a relationship with him/her. I would also ask Learner 3 to engage Learner 1 through e-mail in order to try and share ideas and mentor the student.
Lisa,
An continuous outreach of support can often make or break some students. Good plan.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Lisa,
Yes, sincere and appropriate positive reinforcement is a powerful instructional tool.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Gayle,
Positive reinforcement has been shown to be highly effective in bolstering student confidence in the classroom.
Lisa
I would provide a post to the learner suggestions for overcoming writer’s block and suggestions for navigating the online platform. I would also email the learner and ask if there is anything that he needs to bolster his confidence in navigating the course room.
Noel,
Keeping the student looking ahead and maintaining focus on the goal is an excellent strategy. Encouraging engagement with the instructor and the other students is also very good. Thank you for your insights.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I would ask Learner 1 to not to worry so much about the end of the course, and failure. Take each part and ask questions, until you fully understand it. This is why you have an instructor for, to get all your questions answered , so that you will pass the course, and fulfil your dreams. Keep your focus , and do not be afraid to ask questions to your instructor and other students. They all may be of great benefit to you in completing your course. Think positive and love your course.If you say you are going to fail, then you will be defeated before you begin.
Deborah ,
The individualized affirmation, encouragement and instruction can be a tremandous 'jump start' for these overly self-conscious students. It is very rewarding to see one of the gain confidence and become substantive contributors to the class. Terrific approach.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Good Afternoon Everyone,
Learner 1 appears to be a classic example of the Quiet Student who is overly conscious of what they perceive as shortcomings in their written communication skills.
I would stress in a personal e-mail to Learner 1 the importance of their contributions to the discussion and try to find out the “root†cause of why they are feeling overwhelmed in the class.
I would discuss some time management strategies and if possible try to arrange a peer tutor preferably from another class.
Deborah Balentine
Linda,
Personal intervention to demonstrate care for the individual is a strong corrective action. Allowing the student to explain the problems within their perspective and then providing gentle guidance is a very effective approach for sincere learners. Additionally, it sometimes turns around some insincere objections as you are able to provide the student with the insight that you are there to help them progress.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
It is obvious that Learner 1 is having problems with the course materials. As the facilitator, you should send the student a personal e-mail and suggest the student contact the school for tutoring or suggest a one-on-one chat session to discuss the concerns of the Learner.
Joel,
Great plan. Positive reinforcement mixed with corrective guidance is a great way to encourage success.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I would contact Learner 1 individually and ask them how I could help them understand the material better. I would also stress some positive things I have noticed about their progress in the class thus far. I would focus on helping them get through the material for the current class with additional resources, tutors, or help available. Then encourage them to look at their program choice at the end of the term and re-evaluate whether it was the right program for them.
Crystal,
Using the team approach and external resources is often very helpful for these situations. Thank you for sharing your insights.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I would engage this student in a discussion to try to encourage them to continue. I would see where they are experiencing difficulties and formulate an action plan to address the issues. Depending upon the issues the student is experiencing, setting up tutoring or some type of peer help may also be part of the action plan.
Yvonne,
Very good point. The mindset of the student plays a crucial role in the subsequent success or failure. Providing positive reinforcement getting them examples and tools are definitely appropriate steps to take in getting the learner back on the right track. Thank you for your contribution.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
