What does a facilitator do when they encounter unexpected late additions to their groups or courses? In the Caribbean we often have devastation as a result of hurricanes. Whatever the cause for the late enrollment this delay in entry causes stress on the student, and clearly puts them at a disadvantage in performance. It is important for tutors to recognize these students are STRESSED and do care about doing well. What can a facilitator do to help?
- Reach out and make a connection: They are feeling a bit alone and a lot behind right now. Send them a note that tells them you understand they had a situation that delayed their entry, and that you are there to help them get on track. Tell them you care about their success.
- Give them a path to success: Rather than sending them a list of due dates, give them a “success guide” for time management. Give them pointers on what the key items to spend their time on. Give them an idea of how much time on a daily or weekly basis to spend on topics that will enable them to catch up in a reasonable period of time.
- Point out the “essentials”: Provide them with some study guides that identify the key learning points of the materials they need to cover. (These might be good for all students in preparing for exams as well).
- Hold some special real-time sessions: Encourage them to attend some “motivational” sessions where you can give them some pointers on what they need to cover – especially if foundational knowledge was missed. Use BBC or Skype to make these sessions happen.
- Consider allowable extensions: Do you have some flexibility in working a revised deliverable schedule for these late entry students without penalties? We know we have an absolute end date to the semester, but is there “wiggle room” on assignments to accommodate these students in the next few weeks to help them catch up?
- Don’t label them as lazy: Most importantly, recognize that often the delay in entry is not a personal choice or one the student may have had control over. Many students are enrolled in a full load of courses while employed full time. Your attitude towards your student is one of the first things that will affect your ability to be authentic and supportive.
