Frequently Asked Question
How should I respond to a student who needs help?
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Remain calm.
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Use your good judgment, and consider the following options:
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Consult with a colleague or department chair, the Dean of Students, or Counseling Services if you need guidance.
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Deal directly with the behavior/problem in the classroom, according to classroom protocol.
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Address the situation one-on-one.
Mentally rehearse what you want to say.
Confront the student about specific concerns. Be direct and clear: "You have been doing/seeming ___________, and I am concerned about you. What's going on? . . . Have you talked with anyone about this?" etc.
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If the student doesn't want to talk about it (denies there's a problem or explicitly says it's "private," don't push for information!) But do follow through with referral.
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Refer the student to one of the College's student resources. See referral phone numbers for help.
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Hold the line about your expectations. (Don't feel guilty about a student failing a project or a course.)






