Things to consider when reviewing a student's portfolio sessions and answering student questions:

1. There are no wrong answers. Only misunderstandings or unclear instruction.

a. Assume the student is doing their very best.

b. Approach feedback with gentleness.

Use phrases like:

- I noticed that

- I am curious about

- I invite you to consider

- I encourage you to

- Have you noticed

- What are your thoughts about

c. Ask questions. Seek to understand the student and their questions or misconceptions.

d. Be respectful and treat each student as is you are conversing with them face to face.

e. Use their name in communications. Most everyone likes to be known and recognized, and since you aren't face to face, their name is the next best thing to make your communication with them more personable.

f. Consider scheduling a phone chat for extremem difficulties in comprehension. Email is good for most questions and explanations, but sometimes a phone call will save a lot of time with back and forth conversations leading to frustration on both sides.

2. Remember students are still learning and are essentially new to this.

a. Believe that with practice and your guidance they will learn the process. Use language to suggest this to them as well. Be their cheerleader.

b. Choose the most important concern to address and focus on that. Others will come with time, practice, and experience including additional guidance from you.

c. Provide examples when addressing confusions and focus on solutions.

- Screenshots of example student sessions or Belief System Templates

- Screenshots of their portfolio and kind suggestions on where to improve

- Written examples of personal metaphorical scenarios illustrating the issue. (Use the phrase "For example")

- Most importantly show PATIENCE. Reflect back on a time when you were learning something new and really needed help to get it. A little validation and love will go a long way.