Know Thy Student
This should match the types of learners. Know thy student and follow with the instructional methods that succeed for them!
Robert,
When we know our students they will get a better learning experience. Personalization of instruction by visiting, discussion, before class chatting, or whatever way we connect can help us in our mission to get to know our students.
Barry Westling
It is very important in the first few days of a new class to "know who your students are". We have many young students from dysfunctional families who want to learn what you have to teach. Pick up as much as you can about their background so that you can work with them individually. I have found that many don't have an adult male figure at home and that many times I become a father/authoritarian figure. If I take the time to know my students then I can better teach them what they have come to school for.
Warren,
These days, classes can be so diverse, we have to "take em as we get em", and that means finding those common denominators that will allow us to reach them in some way. That just reqiures time, a genuine interest, and a willigness to work with each one individually.
Barry Westling
And tell them where you've come from! I think alot of students think we were hatched out of eggs just as we are today or born with silver spoons. Your success story as their teacher may be their only role model or success story they've ever seen!
Heather,
Great point. I don't know if it's realistic, but I think some students do expect teachers to be "perfect" in every way. Obviously, not true (by a long shot)! But giving good expectations (in the syllabus, 1st day expectations discussion, refering to existing class, program, or school policies) are a good way to share something about how one teaches their class and their expectations for students. If students know what we expect, we can have meaningful discussions with them about how we can assist them in their quest for achievement in class, framed within the context of our expectatations. Sort of a win-win situation.
Barry Westling
i found in the past that some students i could talk about proceedures about fixing hvac but entill they see it beeing used on the equipment that we are talking about it never seems to sink in. so i try to mix class room instuction with hands on.
William,
Having an application to apply the theory or lecture material always helps students retain the information and improve their skills.
Barry Westling
