Self reflection tool to identify support networks

A variety of research suggest that students need support and that they cannot be expected to cope with the pressures associated with changing their mindset alone. It is widely recognised that students need regular reassurance, advice, guidance and support and understanding the importance of support network.

This activity forms the basis of a conversation to determine whether students have a comprehensive support network and/or where gaps in a student’s support network exist. Where gaps in a student’s support network do exist, staff members could identify an appropriate support network to fill this gap.

This could also identify where peers who have travelled abroad before, for example, are particularly important support mechanisms and therefore underline where meeting them might be an appropriate strategy to improve student motivation or achievement of successful mobility exchange.

Task 1:

Please identify your existing support system.

Draw your own support system using a mind map similar to the example below. This activity encourages you to reflect on your existing support strategy but also identify where your support system can be strengthened.

Task 2:

Using the method above,  pre-plan which members of your support network you might approach for different needs: