First Week Frights 
How to Help our Students Overcome Fears 
CCO Public Domain
The first few weeks can be stressful for both students and faculty. For some students, this may be their very first college class. Starting the first few weeks off on a positive note is a great way to enhance student engagement throughout the course. In the article written by Dr. Maryellen Weimer " Strategies for Addressing Student Fear in the Classroom" we learn some quick tips on how to eliminate those fears for our students.
  • Learn more about fear and how it can impact your students. What are some of the biological effects fear can have? The more you understand it, the better able you will be to recognize it and step in.
  • Recognize that not all fears are something that can be controlled. Students are facing outside influences that may impact or multiply their fears in the classroom. Knowing where to send them for resources will be important.
  • Demonstrate simple anxiety methods that can help students ease their worries and concentrate more on their course work.
  • Be clear with instructions for your course. Students will become more confident if the instructions are easy and clear to follow.
  • Make sure you communicate with your students in and outside of your classroom. This will help develop relationships with your students and will help them further engage in the classroom setting.
  • Learn what student resources are available. GSC has a broad range of support services available to students. Learn more here!
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What are some ways you help your students overcome challenges?  We would love to hear about your experience!  Share with online here!

Thank you for all you do to help our students succeed!
  
- The Office of Academic Affairs at Granite State College