“How to Help Someone use a Computer”

• “You are the voice of authority. Your words can wound.“ (things you have to tell yourself)
  
• “Attend to the symbolism of the interaction. Try to squat down so your eyes are just below the level of theirs. When they're looking at the computer, look at the computer. When they're looking at you, look back at them.“ (important rule)

I found these two pieces of advice in the article to be very universal. Every teacher should remember these two guiding principles. With any student, it is important to validate them and to make them feel like they are part of the solution, not part of the problem- being too authoritative can make them feel insecure. I also believe it is very important to keep eye contact, it reassures the student. It is especially important, with smaller children, that you squat so that you are at eye level with them. You are then on the same plane, not looking down at them from a threatening place.

When informing our classmates on e-books it will be important to keep eye contact with them to show openness and make them feel comfortable, and we will speak to them in a way that shows we are peers.


Citation: http://polaris.gseis.ucla.edu/pagre/how-to-help.html