The bi-annual event was headlined by Kathleen Gabriel, an associate professor of education at California State University, Chico and author of Teaching Unprepared Students, a look at how unprepared students can develop academically and graduate on time.
In her keynote presentation in the Kate Buchanan Room, Gabriel explored strategies for maintaining high classroom standards while creating an environment in which all students can excel.
“I’m sorry to say there’s no magical solution and no quick fixes [for helping unprepared students],” Gabriel told the packed room. “I do believe, however, that it’s never too late. Just because a student doesn’t start off on the right foot, doesn’t mean they can’t turn it around.”
Gabriel told attendees to think outside the box when working with unprepared students, encouraging them to use index cards, clickers and other unconventional methods for promoting classroom participation. “Sometimes it’s just one teacher who can see a student struggling and make the difference,” she said.
Cai Stuart-Maver, a learning skills specialist in the Learning Center, said the workshop exposed him to new methods for engaging with students. “One suggestion that I found very helpful was the use of index cards as an alternative to clickers in the classroom. It’s something I could see the students responding well to.”
The daylong event also featured small breakout sessions. In moderated groups, attendees explored topics such as stereotyping, holistic advising and supporting students with disabilities. Kevin O’Brien, director of the Student Disability Resource Center, said the program taught him the importance of bringing a personal touch to his interactions with students. “Sharing you own experiences and struggles can give some encouragement with their struggle to persevere,” O’Brien said.
Faculty, staff and administrators interested in continuing discussions on effective pedagogy, inclusive communities and student success are encouraged to participate in one of three spring book circles.
Administered by the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, the workshops will take place from noon to 1 p.m. from February to April. Participants may choose from one of three books: Why Aren’t We There Yet? Taking Personal Responsibility for Creating an Inclusive Campus; Generation on a Tightrope: A Portrait of Today’s College Student and Learner Centered Teaching: Putting the Research on Learning into Practice. Register by visiting https://humboldt.edu/forms/node/304. The deadline is Feb. 1.