Feeling Inadequate When Starting School
Many students that I work with on a daily basis don't feel that they are tech or computer literate as some of their classmates. But I also find that many students will mentor or tutor their fellow classmates in order to promote a team atmosphere towards classroom success.
Cory,
These are all great ideas that can be very effective. I'll be interested to see your results!
Susan Backofen
Excellent idea. We too have recently implemented something quite familiar. It is a win/win situation and, although in its' infancy, it seems to be working. We'll know more as time goes by. We began this mentoring program with the simple analogy in regards to exercising under the belief that one would be more likely to take themselves to the gym and stick to it if they had a partner and or group that did it with them. Seems to place more accountability. The military does something similiar as well when sending recruits to boot camp. Its called the "buddy system. Our hypothesis is that a great support group would correlate with higher retention rates. Again, time will tell.........
We also use student senate. Student representatives are elected by students and they can be an outlet for students to discuss issues/concerns with their peers. The intentions are to allow a forum for the students' voices to be heard and also hopefully get feedback from those students who dont feel comfortable speaking with faculty and find it easier to do this with their peers.
I agree Sharon. Most students feel more comfortable approaching one of their fellow classmates such as students mentors.
Shelley,
This is excellent! I really think this is a wonderful idea, and as you point out they are helping themselves with the material as much as helping others.
Susan Backofen
I have also found there is often a student or two in each of my classes who chooses to step up to tutor and/or mentor others in the class. Not only are they helping themselves by learning the material as they tutor, but they provide an invaluable service to many of their fellow students. My school helps to reward these students with an award each term called "Helping Hands," which goes to the student who is deemed most helpful to the others in their class. The award is voted on by their peers.
Sharon,
I've noticed that as well. Interesting how students may be less likely to assist others on course content, but are more willing to help with the technology side. This does make for a wonderful opportunity for them to build relationships with each other!
Susan Backofen
