first week
if a student is unresponsive to our attempt to reach out to them, what can we do to hlep them to come back to school and what is it that can be don specifically to meet each individuls needs?
Elizabeth,
The key is knowing what motivate them to enroll in the first place and the factor(s) that may be preventing them from attending now. It's hard to treat the symptom...better to determine the cause and address that.
Susan Backofen
I could not have said it better myself. Sometimes even the effort gives them the will to sort out their own problems. No one is expecting you to solve their lives for them but everyone needs a helping hand now and then
I'm not sure if every school does this, but we have them fill out a form when they enroll that explains how they chose this field and why they want to do it.
If they stop attending and/or won't return your calls, I would leave a message reminding them of their goals and dreams. It has worked for us before!
I usually like to talk with student to find out what can I do to help or assist in his or her transition to school...it is a scary moment and then they are wondering are they making a good sound decision in coming to school. Adult learners at least for some want to go back to school, then I see the doubts--will they make it to the end..espeically with technology.
Sometimes, new students feel he or she are not ready once they see a class and expectations for the class. It can be overwhelming to him or her.
But unfortunately, maybe he or she is not ready and need time. But what is a good time to go back to school?
I agree with you about that some students just need to know someone believes in them and is willing to help them get to where they wish to be
edward,
Many times, that is the biggest thing we can do for them...believe in them!
Susan Backofen
I agree about the helping hand and liked the suggestion that it is important for someone to reach out if they notice a student looking disengaged, confused, etc. It does not need to be a specific person from a specific department as we are all a part of the students education community. I also liked the idea of posting a support board so the students can help each other out with transportation, child care, etc... I plan to discuss this with our Education Director.
i always make aup a packet for late registration students that contains all the material i handed out plus a resouorce packet with helpful information so that they do not feel left out or get behind and give up
I agree totally. I once had a student who upon graduation gave me a card and inside it read "thank you for believing in me, if it wasn't for you I would have dropped out of school. I appreciate everything you have done for me because I don't really have anybody in my life that really cares"
It broke my heart yet made me very proud of her for all of her accomplishments. What we all need to understand is that a lot of these students come from less than ideal homes and backgrounds. Just letting them know you believe in them makes a HUGE difference.
Lisa,
Wow! That makes it all worth the effort.
Susan Backofen
I totally agree, we must first discover the motivating factor or the moment of truth that made them want to enroll and further their education. I believe you must keep them connected to that motvating factor so they will not lose sight of why? they are here.
I would continue to reach out to them via email. Once they come back I would set up a meeting with them to discuss what could be done to help them and their academic success.
