One of the biggest takeaways from this lesson was the concept of helping students succeed inspite of what is going on with them in their personal life. Considering the fact that students come to us with limiting beliefs about their abilities to do well in school as well as other stressors and personal problems that we may be unaware of, we must learn to understand them on a deeper level and create connections that with help to feel comfortable, believe in themselves, and thrive in their studies. One of the suggestions is to help students to build confidence by letting them know we believe in their abilities despite their circumstances. Simply knowing that others believe in them will significantly impact their personal confidence level and their ability to succeed. I plan to implement this more often especially when students come with reasons why the need an extension, course cancellation or withdrawal. Reminding them that we believe in their ability to succeed despite their short-term circumstances.
