Student Expectations.
upon ariving at the school for the first time for orientation the students are scared and nervous. the job of the campus is to make them feel comfortable and part of the campus. be relaing the resources to the students from the start, this should give them a confidence base that will relax them.
Making our student prepared and comfortable is part of help retention
Lisa,
I agree. And as a student, I always liked to look through the book before class and get an idea of what was going to be covered (although sometimes this can be very intimidating!)
Susan Backofen
I agree with this because they really do like to receive their books after orientation. This is the time when they are introduced to the rest of the staff. As instructors, it gives them a chance to ask questions and to voice concerns. It also allows for introductions before the first day of class. They appear more confortable on the first day.
Anna-Marie,
Love the 'team' scenario. I am sure this helps the students to understand they have a support network and that you are there to help them succeed.
Susan Backofen
I agree with establishing the comfort and rapport that will make the students feel right, from day #1.
As a adult learner I can completely relate to htis situation. I have to explain to my students that their success is my success and that "WE" are a team. In order for them to complete the course they have to compete with lifes issues. We all have them its how you deal with them determines your success.
We have representatives from all areas of the faculty present at orientation to answer questions and speak to new students about common issues and solutions. We also have current students speaking at orientation so that they can give first hand information on what is expected of them and the support that is available to help them succeed.
Also the admissions staff who worked with the student through their application and financial aid. It is an established relationship. This speaks volumes to the new student.
The addition of student representatives at my college has made all the difference for first day students. Not only are they a friendly face in a crowd of unknowns, they also provide directions to class. That small effort alone puts students at ease, to tour their new campus but still be able to find their homeroom.
I agree with the value of the campus being proactive in easing tensions and nervousness, and i feel the implementing of successful student representatives during this process will give more credibility, thus relaxing the tensions.
