Unit 1

What's a Developmental Student?

Part I

The challenges faced by developmental students go far beyond their lack of academic skills. Although it's impossible to generalize because this group is so diverse, the characteristics on this list apply to many students enrolled in college-prep courses:

1. Dependency (passivity, helplessness)
These students may:

refuse to attempt assignments refuse to participate in group activities blame others for their problems expect the instructor to repeat material until they learn it wait for the instructor to solve their problems

Teaching suggestions

2. Elevated anxiety levels (fear of trying, expectations of failure)
These students may:

be the first in their families to attend college be afraid to try anything new fear asking questions lack a support system at home and in their neighborhoods sit silently in the back of the room cover up their fears with loud bravado expect to be humiliated by other students and college staff

Teaching suggestions

3. Inadequate academic preparation (difficulties with reading, writing, math, library skills, and tests)
These students may:

skip reading assignments exhibit math and test anxiety never have read a book or checked one out of a library never have used an encyclopedia never read a newspaper or magazine lack basic study skills lack an understanding of basic math concepts have little experience with critical thinking

Teaching suggestions

Go to Unit 2

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