Lecturer: Nestor ChanUniversity of BelizeMarleny Sanchez, Matilda Shal, and Rolando Cocom

Communicating with learners and

parents

Content:What is communicationThe triad conceptEffective communicationDeliveryClass participationStrategiesNegative communicationParent involvementConclusion

What is communication?Communication is a dialogue which

comes from the words dia and logos (meaning or reason flowing through or across). Dialogue may begin with the simplest of human interactions. (Hoy, and Miskel, 2004).

The Triad Concept There are three factors present: the teacher, the student, and

the parents. The interactions among these three

actors largely determine the student’s willingness and readiness to learn. (Attitudes and behaviors). (Peter, 1998)

Conditions for effective communication: Understanding of the learning targets

everyone who is part of the conversation Accurate information

assessment, method, and sampleClearly defined symbols

grades, ratings, checkmarks, percentages, smiley faces, etc.

Communication tailored to the audiencedetailed, frequent, vocabulary, multiple

intelligence, cultural & social backgrounds, etc.

DeliveryObjectives: Where are we going?

◦Make it clear why the information is interesting and important.

Motivation: Motivate students to attend the lesson. ◦Intriguing questions, anecdotes,

jokes, riddles. Transition: Provide connections to help

students integrate old and new information. (Application)

Clarification: Do not inundate student with “too much too fast”.

Scaffolding: Step-by-step practice, encourage student collaboration and understanding

Class ParticipationDaily review: “I learnt…”

◦Clarify points of confusionNew material: main points and

examples. Specific feedback-

Correct/incorrect answers to questions

are acknowledged. Cooperative learningAccepts feelings in a non-

threatening manner.

Class ParticipationPraises or encouragements:

◦Give kudos to student’s efforts. ◦Make jokes that release tension, but

not at the expense of another individual.

Accept or use ideas of pupils: clarify, or develop ideas suggested by a student.

Ask questions: Ask question first then call on someone to answer. ◦A lower-order question and higher-order question. Recall then reasoning.

Helpful Strategies:Address students as equals.Listen to students and their

responses.Pair students or small groupsDisplay genuine attention and

interest; going the “extra mile”Role reversal: they become the

experts and source of knowledgeAllow them to talk about

themselves. (Affective domain)

Helpful Strategies:Give constant appraisals.Feed their ideas.Be friendly and courteous.Respect diversity.Content knowledgeHave patience.Conducive learning environmentAuthentic resources

Negative CommunicationStern disciplineStrict conformity to regulationsSetting unattainable standardsEmotional outburstsSarcasmExcessive home works and assignmentsRecurrent low gradesThese may lead to frustration, poorly

prepared assignments, inability directions, careless work, and overall dislike of teacher and school.

Involving ParentsLetting the parents know:

◦Where we are going.◦Where we are.◦How to close the gap.

Teachers must have good intentions to collaborate with parents.

Clear information on all school policies, academic programs, and transitions (Michael, Diana, 2001)

Effective newsletters about school events, student activities, and parent’s questions and reactions

Involving ParentsTeachers should create opportunities to

participate in the education efforts of the school.

Conferences with every parent -with follow-ups as needed

Folders of student work sent home regularly for parent review and comments

Give parents invitations through notes written by pupils or formal announcements to meet with parents.

Involving ParentsMeeting once with parents is rarely enough to get consistent behavior on either part of parents or a child.

Parents must know the objectives of education, activities, and assignments.

Perception and attitudes:◦Teacher ego: I know best, I…◦Friends and fellow workers.

Involving ParentsEngagement in learning actives at home:

homework help, projects◦ Guidelines of parents involvement◦ Objectives of lessons, and assessments

Workshops for parents: discipline, drug abuse prevention, assessment aid, internet◦ How many parents feel capable to help their children?

Support groups Sharing parenting tipsSocial gatheringsHome visiting programsParents should know in what areas they can

help their children.

Conclusion:The teacher’s principal role is to

transmit knowledge to students. To do so, the teacher must

communicate effectively in order to facilitate learning.

There is a need to establish and maintain good personal relationships with students and parents.

Reference:

Coleman, Peter. (1998). Parent, student and teacher collaboration: the power of three. London, UK: Corwin Press Inc.

Chamberlain, Leo M., and Kindred Leslie W. (1996). The teacher and school organizations. Englewood cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall

Hoy Wayne, and Miskel Cecil, (2004). Educational leadership and reform. United States. Information Publishing Inc.

Michael, Diana. (2001). Promising practices for family involvement in schools. United States. Information Publishing Inc.

Stiggins, R., Arter, J., Chappuis, J., & Chappuis, S. (2007). Classroom assessment for student learning: Doing it right – using it well. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall.