Coach Students At Midterms to Reflect and Grow
Modern students increasingly display an instrumental focus on their pursuit of a degree -- in other words, many value the results far more than the process. In this mindset, a diploma is the point of coursework, final grade beats quality of discussion posts, and gaining credits trumps learning new information. Amid countless studies and books and articles on learning, there is a key concept that is, as this New York Times article by professor Jonathan Malesic describes, "so simple it's almost never mentioned:"
The willingness to learn.
Grades, credits, and diplomas are supposed to be signs and signals of having learned, and when students shift focus away from learning, they often find they don't achieve these signpost goals. Coaches can help students refocus on learning in a way that enhances their ability to achieve the goals they value. Midterm exams can be a terrific "diagnostic tool" for students, helping them reflect on their study actions and results and make adjustments based on what would deepen learning and transfer.
Coaches can ask questions about:
- Study strategies: Which were used, how did they work, and which can be new commitments?
- Resources that were leveraged: Which were most effective, and what more is needed?
- Time, location, and duration of studying: What are the optimal choices?
- Areas of conceptual and or process confusion: How can instructors and tutors help?
- Types of exam questions that proved difficult: How can those be practiced and mastered?
As students reflect and answer questions about these aspects of midterms, coaches can encourage them to construct a plan for strengthening areas of confusion, adjusting strategies or logistics, and broadening resources in ways that will target their specific needs. Through this work, students can experience the promise of increased learning and improved performance on the next exam and beyond. Learning to love challenge is fundamental to college, career and life success. As a coach, you help students make these crucial connections between where they are now and the person they want to become as a learner and as an earner throughout their career.
Expand your ability to help students diagnose and address challenges in their quest to learn and succeed in career and life. Join LifeBound for a three-day Inclusive Coaching Training on April 14, 21 and 28.
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