The Pygmalion effect and the power of the tongue
The students will act and react to the tone of the instructor. When we have full classes, it becomes easy to use the fact that it is " a large class" when explaining shortages of equipment, etc. What typically happen is that they will use that as an excuse for every short coming during the term. We should focus on the size of a class and the challenge that they may face without using the size of the class as an excuse.
Agreed, be positive and talk about how well the class will despite the conditions.
The Pygmalion effect allows the instructor to create a successful learning atmosphere, by believing that all students will share some personal level of success on any given topic.
continual opportunity for advancement is both challenging and an environment to expose hidden freedom thru creativity, while being rewarding and building confidence.
Spot-on. Perhaps we can even find ways to make the class size a positive. Let them know that a large class will allow for lots of dynamic group work and an energetic environment.
I have used this method throughout my career as a Nurse-leader, supervisor and now instructor. It has such a positive impact when implemented genuinely. When you encourage students by emphasizing their success and continue to reward them with positive words and body language, they blossom! They want to let you know they can do it and they want to make themselves proud.
Large classes can indeed be a benefit in that there are more opportunities for cooperative group work and many opinions to be considered. Of course, the obvious drawback is the lack of opportunity for the instructor to become familiar with each student and his/her strenghts and weaknesses.
i completly agree with that, positive reinforcement and encouragement will go much farther in the classroom
"Yes you can do this" is an answer to students who say they can't do something. I have often used this phrase when I have students who are discouraged by a test score or not understanding material at first. I also sometimes tell them, in a smiling, half-joking manner that there are no failures allowed in my classes if I hear students being negative about their abilities. These things seem to help to keep them going.
