I know you!
I know my students by name. Anytime one student asks me a question I stop them and ask their names (first and last) and then they can proceed with their questions. It is very effective. I practice the same in a classroom setting. Student tell me their name each time they are addressed until I can call them by it. I am one of the lucky people that remember names rather quickly and they are always impressed
Tammie,
There are a number of "tricks" that teachers use to help learn names. I used to try to make a game out of it, perhaps through rhymes the students help me develop.
Jeffrey Schillinger
I like the idea of having the students identify themselves until I am able to address them by name - remembering names is one of my biggest weaknesses - I know who my students are but can not put the name to the face (too many years in the military where we wear our names on our shirts)
I completely agree. A goal I set for myself the first day of each quarter is to learn all of my students names. I expect they know and remember my name and how to address me, so it is only fair and good modeling for me to do the same for them. I live and teach in the south and am amazed at the difference a Ms. or Mr. in front of a first or a last name makes. This is a quick and easy way to show my students they matter to me as people not just as a warm body in a seat. I know of some instructors who don't know their students even by the end of a course, and I always wonder how they can effectively assess participation points or whether or not the student has gained mastery of the subject. Glad to know I am not alone out there!
Andrea,
Most of the time the good students and the "high maintenance" students get most of the attention. It wil be helpful in the long run to find ways to recognize the "silent majority."
Jeffrey Schillinger
This is a huge part of the customer service we give at our campus. With a population of 600 I tell all students at orientation that I will get to know them on a first name basis. Unfortunately it is the "problem" students that I know first and sometimes overlook the achievers. I am trying to change this by making a dean's list for good students for each of our programs.
I memorize names by the 2nd or 3rd day of class, it makes them feel special to be called by name.
We practice this at our school. It is a culinary school and I teach our externs cafe practice. I make it a point to know every student's name and favorite cafe item. This way when I see Jim coming toward the counter I have his latte ready when he gets there. It makes him feel special and that he is not just "another student" Sometimes it is not easy to remember everyones favorite but I found it is well worth it.
Michael,
Learning names is essential. Some teachers do a better job of this than do others.
Jeffrey Schillinger
Our school schedule is fast paced we see a new group of 30 students every three weeks often we are teaching two classes in that three week time period I demand that I learn both of my class rosters by name in the first three days I often hear from my students that they respect being called by name or nickname if it is appropriate
Terrail,
Learning stdents' names may seem like a little thing, but it is really a bg deal. Thanks for sharing this.
Jeffrey Schillinger
