It's early. First shift at the WC later. I got kind of a kick out of parts in the handbook about the simple things that can make a writer more comfortable in their consultations, and feel like they are really being listened to. I liked the bit about sitting upright, leaning over slightly, both feet on the ground, etc, to maintain an impression of utmost engaged-ness. I also liked the part about getting up to "get a cup of coffee" or something if you think the writer might benefit from a few moments of thinking alone. I'm pretty positive one of my math tutors in high school did that to me a few times...he never came back with coffee and had some lame excuse for why he didn't get any after all. I'll make sure I'm more sneaky, and really do get coffee. Plus, I will probably friggin need more coffee anyway.
Anyhow, small gestures that create a mood, ambiance, or impression really fascinate me, and I hope that I can be as inviting and comfortable to be around as possible, as well as an effective consultant.
I have three classes today, and a rather broad array of homework assignments to be working on. The good thing about busy days is that they go by quickly and productively, but at the end of them, I'm so pooped and wonder why...like "I didn't do that much...oh...wait..." My hour plus of cardio a day probably contributes also. This will probably be my busiest semester yet, and I'm actually really excited for that. I'm good at busy.
Now for some moronic cuteness.
It is quite amazing how all of the little things add up to the feel of our space and our work, don't you think? I spent a ridiculous amount of time toiling through all of the possible seating options for our main area (and am quite satisfied with the selection--nifty, wide chairs with a hip, but not too busy, pattern). I am constantly re-evaluating how much time I spend thinking about such things, but we are constantly justified by students who comment on the feel of our space. It's just worth it in the end, I suppose.
ReplyDeleteAnd you're absolutely right about the importance of body language. Sometimes it's something that we have to be more conscientious about, like with papers/students we're not as engaged by/with--we still need to play the part, or otherwise they pick up on our lack of interest, and it's down hill from there. I'm glad we included a question about body language on our observation form--it will make us all be a little more aware!
Keep those ridiculously cute pictures coming!
Best,
Melissa