If students feel comfortable asking questions during class, it contributes to a safe learning environment. In such an environment, students are more motivated to actively participate in class. This is why the course feedback by students, among other things, gauges the approachability of our lecturers. But how do you go about being approachable? This Education Tip contains various guidelines.  

Foster an Open Atmosphere in Class 

Research shows that positive reinforcement is more effective than punishment. Punishment can create a negative atmosphere, which, in turn, is detrimental to the learning environment. You don't want to end up in a learning environment where students are afraid to ask or answer questions: 

• When a student asks a question that is only marginally relevant to the topic, or gives an incorrect answer, react understandingly and interpret the answer broadly and positively.  

• Try to work out the reasoning behind the incorrect answer. 

• Do not just emphasise what is wrong with the answer, but also what is right.  

• Be aware that an incorrect or irrelevant answer may be due to the way you posed your question, or to your earlier explanation. 

Focus on Mutual Respect 

• Set clear rules for what you expect from the students and assume they will live by them. Do not doubt your students' intelligence or maturity: childish behaviour may stem from how you treat them. Make it clear to them that, ultimately, the responsibility for learning is theirs. You are only there to guide them. 

• Give them space to shape part of the class on their own initiative. They might propose inviting a guest speaker or suggest specific topics to address. Show them you are willing to learn from them and open to suggestions.  

Maintain Eye Contact 

• Maintain eye contact with students at various locations in the lecture hall. You will come across as less aloof and formal. Regard your students attentively and read their reactions to see whether or not they are following your exposé. 

• Consider addressing them: ‘It seems my explanations are causing confusion. Can you tell me what the problem is?’ This shows you are ready to anticipate any ambiguities that arise.  

Use First Names 

Although this is challenging in large student groups, it pays off to learn your students’ names by heart. It will reduce the distance and make interaction smoother. Taking the trouble to learn their names is a token of your positive involvement.  

Be Available 

• Students often have questions at the end of the class. Give them the opportunity to approach you. For instance, take your time gathering your things. 

• Address straggling students after class. Ask for their feedback. Adopting an open attitude will make it easier for students to ask questions.  

• At the start of the term, tell the students that you can be reached outside of classes as well. Of course, this does not mean you should be available 24/7. Tell them how best to contact you: 

  • by email, 
  • during fortnightly meetings on the Ufora 'meeting planner' tool, 
  • live during class, 
  • ... 

Set Up Your Own Satisfaction Survey 

Ask students to capture their thoughts on the class in one sentence. Ask them to fold the paper and hand it in. This is a low-threshold way of collecting feedback and showing that their opinion matters to you.