You can not please all of the people all of the time
In a busy life one can only do what one can do. However, good communications with schools, family, friends and associates can help not only maintain good relations but relieve stress.
Communication or lack thereof is in itself a significant cause of great stress. Trust me, the stress situation improves as you age. It might be easier said than done, but learn to relax and enjoy the ride as early as possible.
Yes, I know exactly where you're coming from Michelle! I do like your idea of asking for detailed feedback though. When we have more of the details on why students feel the way they do, it's easier to do something about it and make some positive changes in the future.
Those student evaluations can be really frustrating, and even though I try not to, I really do take them personally. I have found a few things that really help with this situation. First of all, I make a point of asking them to write comments rather than to simply fill in the doubts. I also emphasize the concept of constructive criticism; I ask them to tell me exactly what they like, and what they don't like. If they don't like, I want them to tell my why. I also use an example from the past, stating that "you suck" really doesn't give me any specific areas in which I can improve. You'd be surprised at how many relevant comments I get now! They still hurt a little, but with suggestions for improvement it also allows me to become a better instructor (at least some of them do!).
That is so true and something I need to remember on a daily basis! But I tell you, when I get my student evaluations back and even one person is unhappy, it's hard for me to move past it sometimes. Especially because they don't always explain WHY they feel that way, or it reflects on my overall score (because it was a small class). I agree communication can help but still...
Yes it's true William. It's so easy to be taken down by that one student though.
Agreed. Often, I get extremely frustrated and feel let down when just one student out of fifty does not get/appreciate what I am trying to express. But you can never satisfy everyone, because everyone has different needs/capabilities.
You can only do the best you can, with what you have, when you have it.
Honestly, I have to work on this one. I always want to help others out, always. I am in an industry so serve others and that is the nature of the business. I love teaching, being part of clubs and committees and dedicating my time to making a difference on campus. However, when it comes to saying "No", I am still working on this one. I do understand that I can not please everyone all the time, but I strongly believe in touching the lives of my students and being a role model for my students and co-workers.
Absolutely true! And yet, that may be easier to say than always to do. It does take two to communicate, and not everyone takes the time to communicate well, even if you do! There will always be glitches. Of course, that doesn't mean we shouldn't do our best to try to communicate as clearly as possible.
