• Did you respond to the behaviour only or reflect further and become curious about the ‘story’ behind their behaviour? 

Most of the time, I respond to their behaviour only but with basic understanding. Before teaching or starting class, I observe my students first but in general way; their family financial background, their education background, etc.

• What did you do to understand and learn more about their story?

I paid more attention to that type of students in the class and tried to show them my friendly side. I don't usually set any boundary between my students and me. Rather than teaching them as a teacher, I make it seem more like sharing my knowledges to them like friends sharing what they have each other.

• Read other people’s posts on the discussion forum and respond with any suggestions or ideas based on your experience.

I am not really sure how to give suggestions to others since I didn't have many years of experiences in this field. So, I will just share my experience which I could never forget.

There was a time when I went to see one of my students' parents as she kept on missing the classes for 4 days straight. I thought she was sick so I went to her house to pay a visit. When I got to meet her parents, they told me that they had no other choice but to let their child go to work for their daily survival as her father, the breadwinner of the family was injured at his work. And her mother had to take care of their baby infant. 

I even felt sorry to ask for them to let their daughter come to my class. So, what I just told them that she was actually a brilliant student and was really willing to learn but since she is missing a lot of lessons now, I am worried that she might left behind. 

The next day, she came to school. I was not really sure whether it was because of my encouragement or their parents just felt sorry to me. I wish I could encourage them in better way but that was also my very first experience and I didn't have any knowledge of these.