I don't include many activities in my classroom orientation that address student fears. Fortunately the class I teach comes later in the students program. Hopefully most of those fears have been addressed by then.
As a alumist of the same school I can let my students know that I truly understand what it takes to attend and succede in this school. I feel that I can talk to them on the same level. We have shared the same experences, i have like them lived off raman noodles and mac & cheese. With this we can swap resapies. Also I can tell them about my expereances in school and how I overcame obsticals, and who to turn to for help.They in turn look to me and see just what the hard work and scarifice will accomplish.
Heinz--
That is an excellent point. For whatever reason, people in general tend to focus on the difference (perhaps we are taught that) rather than the similarities. Each person is different, but we have much more in common than not.
Susan
we focus on what students have in common vs. how they differ. All students come to school with the same love and interest of the profession.
Patricia--
Career placement is the ultimate point--getting people ready and working in their new career. The stronger you can make the relationship, the better. Keeping students focused on their career goal is critical.
Susan
an instructor who is a key instructor to attend to students individual study, test-taking needs, etc.
I will HIGHLY recommend this one. LOVING IT.
I used this one just yesterday with a senior student and a new student during practical. My senior student was great!! My freshmen student, was impressed.
our entire faculty attends orientation and that helps our new students to feel comfortable with meeting their teachers, campus director, F/A, registrar, etc.
Being one-on-one with them immediately!!
Becoming 'personal' and 'touchable' with them sooner than later and more often than not by being interested in them and zeroing in on why they want to become a professionaland help them achieve that goal as they go through their studies, as well as being empathic with their personal issues when they arise.
I love this response and would like to TRY foster a closer relationship with our career placement personnel
Kate--
All excellent points. Sounds like you have a great method for making students feel at home and welcomed. Setting them up for success is critical.
Susan
we include currents students or graduates in our orientation progam.
i agree new surronding are hard to adjust too and students really need to feel comfortable with their surroundings
I start by sending an email welcoming the students and attaching a 10 easy steps to success guide. Within the note, I let students know that there are many others in the same position, returning to school after many years from an academic environment or perhaps just starting college without much work experience. In either situation, students will find fellow students supportive and encouraging and I invite them to share thier personal stories in our discussion board. Being an online school we work dilgently to encourage students to communicate --- it is essential to thier success so if they are overwhelmed, frustrated, or lost they need to let the instructor know so we can help.
In a traditional classroom, you can see the non verbal clues --- so within the online environment we don't have that advantage and have to continue to invite students to share thier feelings about the learning process.
Troy--
I really like your 'booth' idea. Do the students feel comfortable with stopping by?
Susan
Craig--
That is wonderful that you can relate to them as an alumni. I am sure it is reassuring for them.
Susan
Craig--
This is an excellent model. While some may feel it is redundant and/or takes away from material being covered the first day, I think reiterating key information and affirming their career goals will, in the long run, save time and help retention.
Susan
Hector--
Great idea! And, having another student as a role model/support system is very effective. Great job.
Susan
