A supportive syllabus is an essential tool for helping students navigate academic and personal challenges. By including information about resources and support services, you can create a syllabus that promotes student well-being and success. As you work to create this document, consider including the following:
Resource Information: Including information about campus and community resources that support student basic needs is crucial. This can encompass food pantries, housing assistance, mental health services, and financial aid. Ensuring students are aware of these resources can make a significant difference in their ability to succeed academically.
Contact Information for Support Services: Provide contact information for key support services, such as the counseling center, health services, and academic support offices. Ensure that students know how to access these services and feel encouraged to seek help when needed.
Statements of Support and Flexibility: Include statements that communicate your willingness to support students facing challenges. Offer flexibility with deadlines and assignments for students dealing with basic needs insecurity. Such statements can reassure students that their well-being is a priority and that support is available.
While having a supportive syllabus is a great first step, this needs to be reinforced by the classroom environment. You can promote a caring classroom environment using the following tactics:
Encourage Open Communication: Create an environment where students feel comfortable discussing their challenges. Encourage open communication and let students know they can approach you for support. Building a trusting relationship can make it easier for students to seek help when they need it.
Highlight Available Resources Regularly: Regularly remind students about available resources and support services throughout the semester. Use class announcements, course websites, and office hours to reinforce this information. Repetition ensures that students are continuously aware of the support available to them.
Foster a Culture of Empathy and Support: Promote a classroom culture that values empathy and support. Encourage students to look out for each other and to seek help when needed. By fostering a community of care, you can help students feel more connected and supported.
Creating a supportive syllabus that includes information about resources and support services is essential for promoting student well-being and success. By incorporating resource information, contact details for support services, and statements of support, you can help students navigate academic and personal challenges. When you combine a comprehensive syllabus with a caring environment, you will show students that their needs matter and empower them to seek assistance. Together, we can create a supportive classroom environment that enables all students to thrive.
To get support on implementing these strategies or improving your basic needs work generally, see how we can help here.
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