Thought Vectors and Nuggets

A response to the Thought Vectors and Nuggets Activity
created by Mariia Karizhenskaia (@mkarizhenskaia)

Number of views: 112

“Basically, in that first meeting we ask: What are your goals and how can we support you in achieving them? It’s fascinating how this simple question is initially met with confused looks and silence. Some of them start identifying various needs such as providing better feedback, or better communication with students, learning how technology informs pedagogy; while others ask for more time to reflect on this. They quickly realize that we have a vested interest in their success (however they define success) and genuinely try to create a supportive environment. Also, having a tangible goal and revisiting that goal at the end of our experience together, helps our facilitators realize their true talents and abilities.”

 

This paragraph grabbed my attention as with my students, I’m trying not only to be their college instructor but also their mentor. All of my students are international, and at some point, I was in their shoes six years ago, so I know what they are going through. I know I’m trying to do everything in my power to help them succeed in their studies and their professional journey in Canada. During my classes, I used to do Talking Circles; I ask my students what their goals are, what they want to learn and achieve during my course, and how I can support them in this journey. One of the things I noticed is that students are lost and scared as they are in a new country and educational system, with no support, scared to fail. As their instructor, I am responsible for providing as much support as I can to them, making them believe in themselves as I believe in them, and motivating them by showing previous students success. This exercise helps to identify students’ goals and expectations so I can guide and direct them toward their goals, support them on their way, provide feedback, and be there for them not only during the course but also stay in touch after the program is over.