Topic 6: Being available

Being available is the best way to connect with students.

You don’t need to be on duty. Simply indicate that you are available in the teachers’ room or in the teacher’s room from 7.30 a.m. onwards, i.e. half an hour before the course starts.

But be careful, if you indicate that you are available, you must actually be available.

Sometimes it only takes one time “He said we could see him and talk to him but I got rejected”. Even if this is not the case or the intention, this is what the student will perceive and repeat to his peers. You really have to be thorough.

It is also possible to give students a dedicated email so that they can ask questions to set up an appointment. It is surprising how many students take advantage of the open door. But again good time management and personal organization are essential.