De-Stress Brings Success
We know that multi-tasking most often results in less than optimal results. When students can focus on one task, they have a higher degree of success. This idea is certainly true when the student is experiencing any personal stress or anxiety. Since optimal learning requires decision making, problem-solving, memory storing, and patient focus, the student’s ability to learn effectively is severely handicapped and hampered by any type of real or perceived threat or anxiety.
Brain research has demonstrated that real and perceived threats short-circuit the parts of the brain that need to be engaged for learning. Instead, the cortisol and adrenaline kick in, overriding the learning process, and engage a ‘Flight or Fight’ reaction. Anxious, nervous, or stressed students simply may not be in a position to learn, and certainly not at optimal levels.
What can teachers do? How can they respond?
• Be on the lookout for students who may be showing stress reactions, nervous tics, or who verbally expresses stress or fear.
• Inform the student privately that you acknowledge the fear/stress and let the student know that you will give some slack.
• Allow the student a few minutes to calm himself down, do some deep breathing, and try to re-focus before entering class.
• Privately teach the student that real and perceived fears put brakes on learning. Offer support and strategies to allay stressors.
• Of course, if outside intervention is necessary to assist that student, this should be recommended through appropriate and professional channels.
