Approach
I really like the idea of the holistic approach. It really helps me understand my students' needs when I know a little something about what they are going through. Unfortunately, not all students will come out and discuss their issues with instructors. What type of questions do you feel are appropriate when attempting to reach out to failing students yet not crossing that line of privacy?
Marie,
Asking students to explain something in their own words will show you immediately who understands and who does not. You could also have short "interview" slots that you set up with every student and schedule your struggling students first. This would take up 30 minutes or so of your time per student. They can be presented to all students as your "direct time" with them so that you can discuss general course questions. As long as all students are invited, it will take the attention away form the struggling students - BUT schedule your most struggling students first so that you can help them quickly.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
I like holistic assessments as well. I use portfolios frequently. Although they are time consuming to grade and critique the student can modify the body of work until it is the best he/she can do. It also helps to relate this body of work to their field/industry so that they can see how their work measures up to career expectations. This way the grade makes sense to them.
I agree with you, reaching out and taking the extra time with the struggling student usually put them at ease from embarrasment and having all the attention on them. I also encourage them to call me which benefits them and let them know that the instructor does care and want them to succeed in the course
Marie one thing I do in my online classes is to email each student prior to class starting and ask for their best contact number and time to contact them. I also simply ask if they would like a call with me during the first week. Some students will take me up on that but most don't but what the email does is gives me a way to contact them directly if they don't submit an assignment or I see them drop off in the discussions or homework. I then just call and ask if everything is okay and how can I help. In my experience students will tell you whats going on. Hope that helps!
