it is easy to forget that we don't know everything
the best way that I deal with this is to have open discussions with class and come up with the result as a class.
I tell them that is a good question and I’m not sure of the answer so let’s find out together, and then do so.
That is exactly what I do. I find that it also humanizes the student
Me too. Also, as possible, when the question relates closely to what we're investigating in class, I set aside time at the end for us to begin brainstorming together regarding where the answer might be found. Sometimes, this leads to the internet, or course texts, or the library...or another instructor or staff member who is a specialist. Then, we share the next day what we find once we milk all the sources for information. Each one looks into a part of it, instead of any one researching the whole issue. It allows the work load to seem much lighter to the students, even as they are learning.
Hi John!
Great strategy! I also like to come back to class with info as well. I think this just continues to demonstrate that we care about student outcomes.
Good job!
Jane Davis
ED107 Facilitator
When a student askes me a question that I don't know the answer to I turn it around and make it an asignment for that student to use his resourceses to get the answer on his oun then shair it with the class.
Hi Edward!
I really like to have fun in the classroom as well. I would encourage you to think about the importance of role modeling acceptable behavior for the workforce. How do you think this interaction would be accepted by co-workers?
Thanks and keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED107 Facilitator
When a student asks me a question that I don't know the answer to, I tell them I don't know and I suggest we both do some research and try to come up with the answr together.
Yes being humble is a good way to interact with our students.It does not mean that we are incompetent,and if there is a question that we do not have the answer for, simply say let me look it up for you.it is a better way than pretending we know and give a wrong answer.
I agree - let the students give personal reflections to add to the learning process.
I like to use a little humor when I tell them I don't know something. I say "what do i look like? mr. know it guy?" They will then say something like "Yeah, you are the instructor." I'll say I haven't a clue what they are talking about, but i will look it up. I think showing a "human" side helps.
Hi Richard!
I've always felt that it is much better to say "I don't know but will find out" than to to make people think that I know it all and be proven a fool. I try to demonstrate that a love of life-long learning and learning from each other is a fantastice journey.
Good job!
Jane Davis
ED107 Facilitator
I always let my students know that I don't know everything.....
I agree that letting students know that you are not the Ultimate Learning Guru is benificial to their learning. Letting them know that you continue to research and grow encourages them to work toward their own continued education.
I mention to my class that I am also in constant learning and I do not have all the answers but if they ask me a question I do not know I will exhaust all resourses to give them their answer.
Hi Amy!
One of the reasons I enjoy being in the classroom as an instructor is that it disciplines me to continue learning. Where otherwise, I let life get in my way and don't stay as focused on personal learning. I don't think that instructors have to be "know it alls" but we should be well versed in our topic and be able to facilitate learning.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED107 Facilitator
I do think it is a great idea that the students know you may not know everything it shows our humble attitude and the students are usually more open to having an open conversation. It doesn’t mean that you cannot get the answer for them.
