Group Brainstorm Before we can understand what
students need, we should look back at our own experiences:Recall your time spent as a first-year
student; what did you need to succeed?
What Students Need to Succeed Study Skills:
Many students lack the necessary study tools/techniques necessary to properly comprehend and retain course information
The good news is that by understanding common study difficulties experienced by students, you can address the needs of your students and provide them with strategies for success
Wasting Time
Students (including you) waste more time than they’ll ever realize
-Time spent studying ineffectively-Allowing interruption-Cramming information in one session-Wasting precious lecture time
The following is a three-step method to help students make the most of the little time they have:
Step One: Pre-Lecture Prep Take 15-20 minutes to skim chapter Read
TITLE introduction concept overview or summary subheadingexamine illustrations seek main points of
chapter
Step Two: Being Active During Lecture Pre-lecture prep helps students to stay
aware and active during lecture Student is able to relate what they’ve
seen to what instructor is reviewing Students have a much greater chance of
mastering the material if they are active during lecture
Students will greatly reduce their study time if they focus and take effective notes
Post-Lecture Review By reviewing notes within 24 hours of the
lecture, more information is retained and the likeliness of further study is increased
Students often wait too long to study and material is forgotten before next class
Short and frequent reviews are often less threatening and more effective than long study sessions.
Avoiding Interruption Phone interruptions
Be a good example to students. Have your cell phone off or on silent and put away during session
Tell students the following: SILENCE OR TURN OFF YOUR PHONE!!! Do not keep it within view when it is silenced When you’ve completed your task, you can check
messages and return calls
Avoiding Interruption Where the student studies is a major
factor in his or her concentration levels. Share these tips with your students:
Avoid studying in places where you know you’ll be distracted
People watching
Roommate issues
Library situations
Avoiding Interruption More tips to helps students to avoid
interruption:
Be honest with yourself, do not welcome interruption
Choose activities that will not be on your mind after study breaks
Do not talk to someone who may upset you before or during your study time
Do not allow facebook. twitter, email, etc to distract you while studying. Set aside special time for internet.
Self-Management
Choices which students make greatly increase their levels of success:
Sleep needsNutritionMental health needsStress-management
Self-Management
Share with students necessary resources for their individual needs:
Campus gymHealthy food options on/around campusCampus counseling centerStudent support groupsAcademic support programs
What Do Students Need From You? Your example:
Hard to believe but students crave structure and role models
Be consistent with your studentsShow your ability to have fun while
maintaining appropriate dialog/behaviorsModel your priorities to your students and
show your value in your studiesBe cautious when discussing your personal
life
What Do Students Need From You? Your attention:
Show students they are your priority during your time with them
Keep your cell phone on silent and put away while with students
Leave personal concerns/issues at the door when working with students
Always be on time. This shows them that they are worth your respect and time and is crucial when developing a trusting relationship
What Do Students Need From You?
Your supportPlease give all students your support
equallyAvoid concentrating mainly on those with
whom you “click” or like the bestKeep in mind that students receive support
differently so never give up on or ignore students who seem unreceptive.
Debrief
After being given this information, what is one change you realize you may need to make in yourself to become an effective peer mentor?