Posted 12:15 p.m. Friday, Sept. 13, 2024
Navigating Student Fears with Clear Communication
By Marjorie Bazluki, Senior Instructional Designer in CATL
I recently read an article about communication that opened with the simple line: “This is your captain speaking.” It’s a phrase that instantly evokes a sense of calm, reassurance, and expertise—comforting us with the knowledge that a skilled professional is in control. We can relax, knowing we’re in good hands. Typically, this statement is followed by a few details about the flight—weather, safety instructions, and other pertinent information. This style of communication is exactly what students seek from their instructors: someone who is both in command of the material and capable of easing the natural anxieties that come with learning.
Yes, students experience fears and anxieties in learning—just as we all do, particularly at the start of a new semester. Communication is a powerful tool, and it doesn’t take much to make a difference. By acknowledging the apprehension our students may feel and responding with calmness, clarity, and confidence, we help them feel safe, seen, and reassured.
Small, intentional acts of communication at the beginning of a course can foster a sense of belonging and alleviate many fears, even before the first day. Here are three simple strategies to improve student learning through communication:
- Communicate Clearly
Uncertainty about expectations can fuel student anxiety. By being explicit with instructions and setting clear expectations, we can significantly reduce this. Whether it's breaking down assignments into smaller, manageable tasks, providing a detailed rubric, or explaining discussion norms, clarity benefits everyone. Clear communication isn’t just about academic success; it’s also a matter of fairness and equity. - Create Spaces for Questions
It’s not enough to simply tell students to ask questions—we need to actively create environments where they feel comfortable doing so. Anxiety often comes from not knowing, whether it’s about content or expectations. Adding a Q&A page in your online course or encouraging in-class questions shows students that it’s okay not to have all the answers. This fosters a culture of trust and open communication. For in-person courses, consider using anonymous surveys, reflective journals, or informal chats to invite questions or concerns. - Continuously Check for Understanding
It’s easy to assume students understand just because we’ve explained something, but real learning happens when we check in regularly and adapt based on their needs. Not every student will raise their hand if they’re confused, so it's important to seek other ways to gauge understanding. You might try pre-class quizzes, peer teaching, in-class polls, or quick formative assessments like exit tickets or one-minute papers. The key is to use multiple methods to actively assess where students are in their understanding.
Instructors have the unique ability to guide students through the often-intimidating journey of learning, much like a captain flying passengers through the skies. By focusing on clear, intentional communication, creating spaces for questions, and regularly checking for understanding, we can calm students' fears and set them up for success. Small, consistent acts of reassurance and clarity can make all the difference, helping students feel confident, supported, and ready to tackle whatever challenges the course brings.