Which is a key benefit of building rapport with students?

• A. Less resistance, collaboration with the student, trust in expressing thoughts and experiences
• B. Increased homework load
• C. Higher grades solely due to rapport
• D. More interruptions during sessions

Answer: (A)

When you build rapport with students, the environment becomes safer and more respectful, which makes them more willing to engage. They’re less resistant to ideas and more open to collaborating with you because they feel heard and valued. That trust encourages them to express thoughts and share experiences honestly, which is essential for understanding their needs and guiding discussion and problem-solving together. This kind of relationship also supports ongoing feedback, adjustment of approaches, and a more responsive learning or counseling process. The other options aren’t benefits: increasing homework adds burden; grades aren’t guaranteed or solely caused by rapport; and more interruptions signal a breakdown in communication rather than the rapport itself.