Body Language
Observe your students when they first walk into your class room. Body language can speak louder that words and set the stage on how a student’s day will be. If they seem troubled, upset or half asleep pull the student to the side and discuss what the problem is. Sometimes they only need someone to talk to and this will show you care about them as a person and how they perform in your class room.
you also need to be careful of that you could be getting yourself into alot of trouble depending on the situation and the student. sometimes you are suppoed to certified to deal with students on off subject matters.
I wasn't implying that you get involved with the student’s problems just your observation while they are in your class. Monitoring a student who can't stay awake or focused in class might be something as simple as not eating well or long hours at work. You can refer the student to the proper department for suggestions with a job change or food bank donations.
Jimmy, I get your point. Often its enough that you take an interest in the student to get them "on board". Don't forget, Students are also watching us and deciding what kind of instructors we are based in part on our body language.
I tend to forget that I am 'on stage' every moment in class. That's why I try to arrange the class into a circle if I can, so it's obvious that everyone is looking at me and I CAN SEE everyone. That way there is nobody in the 'back.' I make an effort to pay real attention to each student's response or presentation. I want my body language to show that I care. Most of the time I succeed--but sometimes . . .
This is a great point...often times if you just show your student that you see them and are willing to be part of their educational goal...you will build a great rapport with them.
