We ask that every instructor that is teaching the course with new students attend the orientation day. The students are able to meet with and ask questions to their instructor, which makes them feel more comfortable. It has proven a good measure for retention. During the orientation time the instructors review basic rules, regulations and expectations being careful to provide a full understanding while not being overwhelming.
I always remind them that they are not the only ones starting class for the first time everyone in their class is coming for the first time this lets them know they are not alone with their fears of fitting in that this is new to the entire class,and I let them know its okay to be nervous but also assure them they i will be here to assist them every step of the way so they know they are not alone in their process.I also maintain a relationship with them during their entire time even if i just give them a friendly hello or how's things going.
Students that feel nervous but dont get a chance to express that nervousness usually do not show up the first day. It is important to ask the questions that bring out these concerns
Diane--
That is very nice of you! And, it is encouraging that you have experienced no 'abuse' of that kind of access.
I am sure that it is a comfort for student to know that you are that excessible.
Susan
The school does a great job with using the full staff to make sure students are comfortable . We understand students make decisions about school based on personal situations.
Cheers,
I find that providing my cell number has helped relieve fears for students. I am open and emphathetic on the first contact. Surprisingly I have had no problems with random calls for water cooler conversations. All the calls have been professional and sometimes personal issues from students have been addressed. I let them know that my philosophy is "student first".
Diane
Reps from Financial Aid, Local Employment and the Admissions Reps are all usually present to help reduce the student's fears.
;^)
I like to start out on the first day letting them know that I have been where they are. I also let them know that we will work together as a team to get through the class. I try to make it clear that they should not stress. If they begin to stress, call me.
Joseph--
It sounds like you have class discussions regarding some of the potential issues and fears students have. This is a great way to make people feel more at ease since many more are feeling the same way and simply don't speak up.
Susan
We openly talk about them and discuss ways to overcome and what we believe will help us get there
Brian--
I really like the 'inteviewing' exercise. People are much more likely to give information in this format. Do you have specific things that they are supposed to find out about each other?
Susan
During orientation we talk about the first day of class and what they are expected to know. Additionally we do a self introduction and have them interview each other so they know someone on their first day of class.
I try to make the student feel more comfortable by letting them know when and where I will be before and after class if they need help. In the classroom we also have a box that a student can put questions they would like to discuss in more depth. We have set up tutoring before and after class 3 days a week at the same time so the students will feel better about asking for help being in a group setting rather than having to feel inadequit on their own they see other people asking for help as well.
David--
This sounds like a great plan. I especially like that you discuss needed supplies and orientate them to test styles. You are absolutely correct, test taking is a skill.
Susan
1)We make sure they are aware of all the rules they will be expected to follow, and the most important ones are restated every class.
2) We take them on a tour of the campus so they won't feel or actually get lost. Just like a new job, knowing your way around is calming.
3)We make sure they have the supplies needed to start. Especially those that are supplied by the school, that they are complete and working.
4) We orient them on the style of tests they will be given. Test taking itself is a skill, and not knowing at least the format can be very stressful
1)We make sure they are aware of all the rules they will be expected to follow, and the most important ones are restated every class.
2) We take them on a tour of the campus so they won't feel or actually get lost. Just like a new job, knowing your way around is calming.
3)We make sure they have the supplies needed to start. Especially those that are supplied by the school, that they are complete and working.
4) We orient them on the style of tests they will be given. Test taking itself is a skill, and not knowing at least the format can be very stressful
Our orientations include intro's from all the different departments,and where to find them. They will also give a brief rundown of who to see for which issue.
When I get the students on their first day of my own course, I do give a short history of where I came from and what experience I have in their field of study.This will break the ice so we can move on with other topics.
Dennis--
This sounds very intriguing! How many modules to you have on what topics?
Susan
This is a series of web based training courses that reintroduce the course material in an animated form while allowing the student to review at their own pace.
We talk about what the class overview on the first day and also ask the student what they expect.
