Re: [MATHEDCC] student communication

S. VILLAS (svillas@NMSU.EDU)
Tue, 16 Feb 1999 07:34:57 -0700 (MST)

About the third week, at the end of class, I ask students to write me a
note telling me "how things are going." I ask them to tell me about the
first three weeks of the semester - anything they want me to know.
Usually, I read and respond to this first letter. Then I will do it again
several times during the semester. After the first letter, I will respond
verbally to comments I need to address. Over the years, this has been an
eye-opener for me. Often the students will tell you details they would
never speak about. One of the comments I always get is "Thank you for
asking."

The first time I did this, one of my students told me she was pregnant
and scared. We talked and I took her to the counselors who helped her in
physical as well as emotional ways.

Obviously, this is not always communication about mathematics, but as I
walk around the room before class, I find the students more willing to
talk with me about mathematics problems because they are aware that I am
concerned. It also gives me insight into student personalities that helps
me in my class presentation, in classroom questioning, and in group work.

Sandra Villas
Developmental Mathematics
Dona Ana Branch Community College
Las Cruces, New Mexico

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