A lot of times students are dropped because of their accumulated absences. I ask my students to contact me ay time they are absent, so I will be able to send them the assignment and outlines from the lectures. In this case, students don't feel that they fall behind too much even if they missed the class.
Hi Yulia,
At my institution, instructors must post daily on their voicemails the daily assignments so that when students call in they get the assignments. Also at my institution, the students have a call-in policy. If the student fails to call in the first time, a written warning is given, and the documentation is placed in the student file. If the student violates the policy a second time, the student is suspended for one day, and all work done or due on that day results into a zero. Employers will not tolerate employess not calling in.
Patricia
Looking for the red flags is so important, especialy as instructors where we get to work with the students face to face on a daily basis,we have an advantage at helping troubled students befor it is to late. Sometimes the sollution can be very simple, its just getting them in front of the rite person to help them.
Hi Michael,
As instructors we must know how to read the signs of ready to quit students, and there are many signs. We also must be proactive and not reactive. Most of the time we can save these students who are ready to quit.
Patricia
Excellent,sometimes I will volunteer a few minutes from my lunch break to assist my students; showing that you care, and are willingness to devote extra time will motivate students, as they realise you are hanging in there with them.
Hi Maureen,
Yes, it is the little things that count. Working through your 10-minute break with the student, staying a few minutes late after class to clarify things, etc. These things matter to students. They truly believe that you care from these small gestures.
Patricia
Again, the issue of relevance comes to play. If the instructor can make a practical application between content and career work, the student engagement is more likely. Wanda Bailey
When I have come across a student who seems ready to give up, I have had a one on one talk to try to get to what the root issues are. If these issues are financial or family related, I will try to go to the administration to see if there are any programs or outside agencies available to help, and I also try to motivate the student if it is issues related to “is this what I really want to doâ€, or “can I really do the work involved†issues. It helps to re-motivate the student when he/she feels that you are concerned
I have found that most "Ready to Quit Students" really do not want to quit but feels quiting is the only avenue to handle whatever is going on with them. As the instructor, i try to be proactive rather reactive. Once the student is identified, i spend extra time with them outside class to suggest tools that can help with their stressful situation and let them know that i am available for further assistance. i have used this process for several students in the last three years and they have stayed in school and graduated with gratitude.
I always think the more resources you can help the student succeed and know their options and who is available to help them thru their crisis. We need to contiue to follow up with them every other day, every 3 days and then to once a week until they can officially say that they are in it for the long hall. Get them incolced in weekly tutoring and events around the campus.
