Building rapport with students can make the difference when teaching, especially in a second language. Developing rapport includes building trust, using humor and getting to know the students outside of the classroom can not only help better understand the background of students but can also help with classroom management and instruction.
What is Student Rapport?
Building student rapport is the development of a positive relation between the teacher and the students. There are several techniques a teacher can use to develop this rapport; some techniques are geared towards the beginning of the course, where others are techniques that can be used on a day to day basis.
How can the Student-Teacher Relationship aspect of Rapport be defined?
Define the student teacher relationship as:
The extent to which students accept or "buy into" the goals the teacher has spelled out to the class (Having the student to do activities the teacher asks.)
The student's ability to work toward these goals (Understanding the student’s capabilities towards activities to be accomplished.)
The teacher's ability to care genuinely for students and to nurture their learning (Being willing to help the student enhance their knowledge towards the language.)
The student and teacher "connecting" emotionally and students' motivation to participate actively in their education. (Being able to understand each ones perspective.)
How can student rapport be developed?
Get to know the students both inside and outside of the classroom. Learn your student names as quickly as possible. Consider non-verbal factors such as body language. Develop a relationship built on trust. Have a sense of humor and have fun with students!
What are some activities and strategies you can use to develop rapport?
· Ice Breaker Activities
· Activities to help learn student names
· Body Language Factors of which to be Aware
· Developing Trust
· Using humor in the classroom
NOTE: The answer to the Complaints Awareness Test is posted below it. Written by: Lorry Virgo
having rapport with student will help the student feel confident in expressing their thoughts during the lesson.
Building rapport is very important. This help you to have a good relationship to students. Personally I think this is where I got to know my students weakness and strength. Also try to remember things about the students they will feel happy when you remember things about them. Very helpful to have regular students.
That's very informative, teacher. Thank you.