student teacher relationships Archives - ABHE Knowledge Center

Hospitable Teaching, Redemptive Formation, and Learning Mobility: A Spirituality of Teaching Based upon the Writings of Henri J.M. Nouwen

College professors should get to know not only their subjects, but also their students, inside-out. Otherwise, students may be lost to academic and social predation early in their academic careers. The late Henri Nouwen offers a rich spirituality of teaching in his emphasis upon hospitable teaching, redemptive formation, and learning mobility. Together, these form a caring educational matrix, one very well suited to contemporary students. As the teacher embraces this model, he or she will also need to move from the classroom to the “dining room,” from outcomes to “incomes,” and from core to “cluster” – all with the students. In this way, professors create a spacious opening for students to learn how to make good choices and follow their genuine calling without pressure or manipulation.

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How Close is Too Close?

This narrative inquiry explores the depths and intricacies of teacher-student relationships at the post-secondary level and asks the question, “How close it too close?” A college sophomore tells the story of his childhood and formative years, including the challenges he faced and the implications for both his current life setting and his future ministry. Josh’s voice represents the diverse needs our students bring to the table, while analysis allows us to investigate appropriate responses as teachers in higher education. Through the telling of his story, the researcher hopes not only to raise issues surrounding boundary development in the classroom, but also shed light on more collaborative models of learning. Both Jewish and monastic schools of thought are mentioned as possible models for Christian educators who seek to think about education as a more communal endeavor. Through better understanding of ourselves and our students, along with openness in collegial relationships, we will be able to discover the amount of investment we may and must offer our students.

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The Faculty Factor: Maximizing Faculty Impact on Student Recruitment

Most graduates of independent colleges and universities do not have to think too hard to recall a great faculty member who was not only their teacher, but also a mentor, cheerleader, and advocate. But what about the faculty role with prospective students? How should enrollment teams leverage faculty strategically in the student recruitment process? Let’s explore relevant research and best practices to answer these important questions.

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