Students care about having a good relationship with their professors. Out-of-class communication makes student-teacher relationships more personal, correlates with student levels of satisfaction, motivates students, and contributes highly to student learning.
Building Rapport
Tips for encouraging out-of-class communication for professors:
- Make time for students when they need help, especially during office hours.
- Arrive to class early, and stay after to accommodate easy contact.
- Include an invitation to visit during office hours and a “by appointment” option.
- Explain your availability to students on the first day of class.
- Write email and office hours on the board (or include in PowerPoint) in every class.
- Work to learn student’s names and recognize them around campus – smiles and waves are appreciated.
- Provide specific feedback on assignments and course projects.
- Schedule midterm consultations with each student.
- Provide home or cell phone numbers in case of emergencies.