Military Ethos: What Educators Need to Know
To better support and engage student veterans, educators need to understand the military ethos—the unspoken but deeply ingrained values that guide military members throughout their lives. This mindset shapes military-connected students' approach to learning, discipline, and community, distinguishing them from traditional students. Here are some insights into the military ethos and key factors educators should know to engage student veterans.
Understanding the Military Ethos
The military ethos blends duty, loyalty, self-sacrifice, and resilience. It's an unofficial set of principles that govern how service members conduct themselves in all aspects of life. Commitment to one's unit and mission and respect for authority and hierarchy are cornerstones of this ethos. For many veterans, these values don't disappear upon discharge. Instead, they guide interactions, responses to authority, and personal expectations in academic settings.
Structure and Clarity
Military members are used to clear structures and direct communication. Orders and procedures are explicit, with little room for ambiguity. Well-defined course expectations, syllabi, and grading rubrics can significantly improve student veterans' academic experience. Clear guidelines and straightforward communication from instructors help them transition from a structured military environment to a more flexible academic one.
Self-Discipline and Accountability
Veterans are highly disciplined and take their responsibilities seriously. They're trained to accomplish tasks efficiently and meet high standards of accountability. This means they often approach assignments and projects with rigor and consistency. Educators can capitalize on this by offering independent study options or leadership roles within group projects. Allowing veterans opportunities to manage tasks within a clear framework will enable them to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the class.
Respect for Authority
A defining aspect of military ideology is a strong respect for authority. Veterans may initially expect professors and academic leaders to embody a sense of control and authority similar to what they experienced in the military. However, they may also be unfamiliar with the collaborative and sometimes less formal student-teacher relationships in academia. Educators can ease this transition by clarifying their roles and the expectations for student-teacher interactions, providing veterans with the understanding they need to adapt comfortably.
Mission-Focused and Purpose-Driven
Military members are mission-oriented, meaning they are accustomed to having a clear purpose and end goal. Many veterans return to education, wanting to apply their degrees toward meaningful careers. They appreciate curricula that connect directly to practical, real-world applications. Programs emphasizing career pathways, internships, and mentorships can resonate deeply with veterans, as these align with their purposeful drive. Instructors should highlight how academic projects and assignments align with real-world skills and outcomes.
Teamwork and Camaraderie
In the military, success is rarely individual; it's a team effort. Veterans often feel most comfortable and perform their best in team-oriented activities. They also tend to appreciate a sense of camaraderie and connection with peers. Educators can foster an inclusive environment by integrating group work and peer collaboration. Additionally, veteran-specific study groups or campus organizations can provide veterans with a supportive community that echoes their military experience.
Adaptability and Resilience
Military service teaches resilience under challenging conditions and adaptability in uncertain situations. Many veterans have experienced complex, high-stress environments that require rapid adjustments. They may adapt well to evolving demands in the academic setting but find frustration in unorganized or inconsistent instructional methods. Educators who foster a structured but flexible learning environment can help student veterans leverage their adaptability while minimizing unnecessary stress.
Sensitivity to Mental Health Challenges
The demands of military service can affect veterans' mental health, with some facing issues related to trauma or anxiety. Educators must be mindful and compassionate, promoting a campus culture supporting mental wellness. Understanding veterans' possible struggles and proactively directing them to campus resources, like counseling services or veteran support groups, can be invaluable. Normalizing mental health support and advocating for veteran-specific services can significantly aid their academic and personal success.
Conclusion
Recognizing and accommodating the military ethos of student veterans can create a more inclusive and productive educational experience. Veterans bring discipline, respect, and a mission-driven approach to their studies. By understanding their values and adapting teaching strategies to better align with their strengths, educators can help student veterans excel and enhance the diversity and depth of campus life. Supporting this unique group not only meets their needs but also enriches the academic environment for all students.
