Our campus motto is "Changing Futures, Changing Lives". And while the prospect of change can be rather daunting, our staff and upper class students mentor and encourage the new kids on the block.
From the time that a perspective student enters our doors they are greated with warmth and sincerity by many students and staff alike, giving them the impression that they are not new or out of place, but rather coming into a family.
During orientation, the D.O.E. and other administrative staff provide a complete picture of the school and the journey they are about to embark on. Topics such as the history of the school, various program and externship expectations and so forth.
We try to make the students feel comfortable. We introduce our selves and give the students a little background on ourselves. We talk to them about the schools sucesses. We let them know where to go for help. We also have tutoring.
One thing that we have done in Career Development classes, as well as considered making it part of the admissions process, is to have these students dawn a cape and gown and picture themselves at graduation, thus giving them a point of reference to attain.
A couple of Career Development instructors also have instituted a "scavenger hunt" to aid students to gain familiarity with the campus, staff, and other students. In the short time that we have held the scavenger hunts, it has really allowed new students to feeling more at ease and confident with entering or re-entering the halls of academia.
During our orientation, all expectations concerning grades, dress code, attendance, financial aid, and attitude are covered. This is a full day of preparation before the students step into the class for the first time.
Many students lack confidence and need to be guided to reach higher and achieve goals of the course. Sometimes they need guides for success that will give them a course of action on a daily and weekly basis
I have a tutor come in first or second day to introdeuce themselves, but have never really thought about the fear effect before. This is something that I will look into more.
Mark--
Were there other individuals who spoke and/or any interactive activities?
Susan
Michael--
I love the 'wall of fame'...it is important for students to see the success of others and is a great encouragement.
Susan
I have only been to one orientation. The speaker talked about all of the combined experience on the campus, success stories of students and of himself and the fact that they would be learning things that most never get a chance to learn.
I like the idea of having faculty involved in orientation. Especially the suggestion of a personal meeting between faculty and new students. However, we do not break activities into departments because of our small size. We do have a success board with pictures of graduates who have been recently hired. New students enjoy seeing the board and it eases the "buyer's remorse feeling.
During the first day of class, we address issues that the student may face and where to go to have those issues addressed. If a student has special needs or needs tutoring, we inform them how to get these needs taken care of. As an instructor, We have to let the student know that we are there to assist in their learning needs, and that personal issues are handled by the staff in Student Services.
Dee--
Being approachable is key, as you point out. If students don't feel they can ask you questions (in class or out), they do start to disconnect from the class and feel there are no options for assistance if needed. Great job.
Susan
Rondell--
Yes! This helps students to see that it is possible! Testimonials from current students and alumni is a great way to make that point.
Susan
Connie--
This is a great strategy and I'm sure is comforting to the students.
Susan
Chuck--
Great questions. Your students can also see that there are many others that have the same background and/or goals.
Susan
Charlie--
I completely agree...and really like the 'will not be abandoned' part. That is very important.
Susan
Great idea Gary - I like to create a discussion spot that says something like, "If you have a question that is not personal in nature, please post it here - your classmates and I will help answer it!" I have been really pleasantly surprised by the results of this - most times, before I answer those questions, other students have already answered them! This helps to build a sense of community also.
This sounds like a great approach!! That personal touch really makes a difference - it helps them realize they are not just a number to us.
I think one of the best ways to address student fears is to let them know you are available to them, and give them the feeling that you're approachable. The mmore intimidated they feel by you, the less likely they are to ask you questions - and the more isolated they will become. By being visible and friendly at the start of the course, they are more likely to come to us when they have questions.
the first day of class for sops i like to start with a litle history of my self then inform them that i am there to help them if they need it.
