Peer Pressure
One of the biggest causes of stress and the subsequent attrition we face in our school comes from peer and family pressure. We have all to often seen parents that tell their sons or daughters "What makes you think you can do this, you never did anything else that you finished!". As they get closer to graduation, the pressure increases. We attribute much of this to jealousy.
I would be interested in any ideas that others may have as to how to assist the students through this difficult area.
Another parental pressure is "you have to go to college" with no allowance for alternate career paths. So many of our culinary students would benefit from getting a job in the industry first, and using that experience to determine whether or not they truly want to pursue the degree. If they do opt for school, they begin with a passion grounded in reality.
You have touched on a major problem. It's even bigger problem at the K - 12 level. Does your institution include any information about being supportive during the orientation sessions for parents/significant others?
I see it everyday. Many children of school age don't have the resources or support that is needed to keep them wanting to not only go to school but also excel while there. It can be something as small as a parent or guardian complimenting them on a passed exam or a attending a parent night. Having support, not only in school from staff and faculty but also family and friends can help make the difference in retaining students.
What can the school or instructors do to help break these stereotypes or culturally imposed barriers?
I work in a culinary school and have witnessed the family dynamics close up. My nephew attended this school with the support of peers and a multigenerational family; he succeeded. On the other hand, I have witnessed families pull away from from a family member who dreams to succeed in an area atypical to sociocultural norms--a male pastry chef, a female culinary chef. Only those so strong in their belief of self can succeed with these family dynamics.
Peer pressure is hard enouph when it comes from freinds, A parent should incorrage their son or daughter not set them up for failer.
Often parents are afraid their son or daughter will fail and they will have to pick up the pieces. I think the instructor should encorage the student by prasing the students in their attempts wether they succeed or fail. A person is the most vulnerable after a failed attempt and are more apt to quit.
Ask the student to bring in their family member that is unsupportive. If this is done near the end of a course or phase, it can make a huge difference to see what the class has learned and how they progressed. Misery does love company, and peer pressure even from home can be both negative and positive. here is quote for us to ponder:
Rarely do schools acknowledge the power of peer culture in defining standards, and rarely do they take advantage of this power as an engine for quality. When students themselves are in charge of projects that they care about, peer pressure can become a powerful force for high standards.
R. BERGER, Harvard Education Letter
The pressure can work both ways, get that negative family member into the school, show them that learning is easy, challenging, but easy. Let them set their own goal of what is next to learn - they can create their own project on how to make themselves better. I believe that all humans want to be better than they are. It is up to us to show them how to achieve that, whether it is in our school or another school. Teach them and let them learn.
I wonder how many students realize how fortunate they are to have teachers who have worked in the field - who have gone through the experiences that lie ahead for the student. Certainly that isn't the case in most traditional college classrooms.
They are doubly fortunate when the teacher brings a genuine enthusiasm for the field rather looking at themselves as gate keepers charged with keeping people out of the field.
In my experience, I have worked in the field my students will be entering. Sometimes a student needs to realize that he is there because of his commitment and to have a mentor who has succeeded in his chosen field will help them re-realize their goals.
How often do you host these events, Constance? Are they mandatory?
One of the best ways I have found is to host an open house for students and their families or support persons. We set up displays of things that the students are working on, books they use,and proficiencies they are required to complete. Teachers,staff,former graduates are present to answer questions and make a special point to praise the student and tell the support person how important they are in helping them succeed. Everyone gets a pat on the back!
Are you suggesting that graduates come in to talk with a group of students or just with specific students who are struggling? If so, how would this work?
Maybe have past graduates come by and talk with students. Most of the time students want questions answered from some one who has been through it.
Point well taken, Michael. It is important to maintain a professional relationship with the students. Resources are already limited; the institution is not well served by seeking out unrelated problems.
Being a"friend" can be taken a few ways. It is important to know, in my opinion, what life factors are causing problems in school and even finding resources for students to access. If we become the big brother and begin looking for personal issues or problems that are not manifesting in poor academic or attendance perrformance we run the risk of serving our ego and not or responsibility to the students.
Bill, I have actually told students in these situations that they have to take care of themselves. Do what is in their best interest. Seek outside help or resources for support. I also have told them that sometimes when people, even those we love feel they are being out done, left behind, or just feel threatened by others success they may attack the goals of the loved one.
Being a"friend" can be taken a few ways. It is important to know, in my opinion, what life factors are causing problems in school and even finding resources for students to access. If we become the big brother and begin looking for personal issues or problems that are not manifesting in poor academic or attendance perrformance we run the risk of serving our ego and not or responsibility to the students.
Not having the support of family and friends when trying to set and acheive goals can be a hugh factor of a students future.
As an instructor, I feel it is my moral obligation to try and be,,a friend,,a big brother,,an uncle,,etc,etc,
It has, in many cases, worked for me and my students.
