What strategy can be effective for connecting with a withdrawn student?

Building a connection with a withdrawn student can be particularly effective through private conversations about their interests. This approach allows the student to feel valued, heard, and understood in a more personal setting, which can help to ease their withdrawal. When educators take the time to engage one-on-one with a student, it creates a safe space where the student might feel more comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. Discussing topics that genuinely interest the student not only fosters rapport but can also make them feel more involved in the classroom environment.

This strategy is particularly important because withdrawn students may struggle to participate in larger group discussions, where they might feel overwhelmed or anxious. Unlike the option of group discussions, which could exacerbate their social withdrawal, a private conversation allows for a tailored approach to the student’s needs. Assigning more work could lead to increased stress and resentment, while ignoring the student would likely lead to further disengagement. Thus, initiating private conversations focused on the student’s interests serves as a supportive bridge to re-engage them in the learning process.