Response to First Student 1:
This student raises a good when making a distinction between teachers who provide caring statements and teachers who console a student’s low abilities. It is very easy to doubt oneself. This feeling of doubt is probably even greater for students who struggle with certain subjects. Teachers that believe in their students help boost confidence that students need to learn. A good teacher will offer words of encouragement even when a student is struggling. But as the study mentioned, when a teacher points out a student’s flaws, the teacher is not as helpful for the student.
Response to Second Student 1:
I agree with this student that a teacher’s attitude can make a big difference in a student’s learning. Students know when they are struggling with a subject and are embarrassed about this. A teacher’s words of comfort can give the student the confidence the student needs to work through the subject. Teachers who comfort a struggling student get do much better with students than teachers who point out struggling students.
Response to First Student 2:
A teacher who consoles a student for low ability singles out the student for low ability. Telling a student “not everyone can be good at math” lets the student know he or she is “not good at math.” This does not help boost confidence. Teachers should give positive and encouraging statements to show they care about the struggling student, instead of pointing out a weakness.
Response to Second Student 2:
I agree that many students do not want to work in a subject because it is too challenging. It is human nature to want to do something one is good at and to avoid things that are difficult. For most students, there will be at least one subject that is difficult. It is even more important for teachers to offer positive words of encouragement when a student is having trouble. It is easy for a struggling student to stop trying. A good teacher will help a student through the difficult subject by encouraging the student.
