Yes, I would like to learn more about the program.
I have found that communication is the best method to lessen challenging students from "showing out". Once I have been able to set standards and demonstrate the value of the course/lesson assignments, I tend to get some buy-in by the students. Quite often some of the students have gotten through life by being boisterous and controling, yet they will normally listen if they can determine that the rules are for a purpose. In addition, I allow the respective challenging student(s) discuss or write out their concerns/complaints, so I can be better able to address the situation with him/her.
You have to listen to your student. Be objective and fair. Then respond back to the student in a timely manner.
Hi Tiffany,
Rubrics are great. It is like you pretty much know your grade before hand. Whenever rubrics are used, students clearly see what they did not do that caused them to lose points.
Patricia
Hi Sara,
You've mentioned some great pointers. These things certainly minimize complaints. The fewer complaints, the better.
Patricia
Hi Peter,
I can tell you pay close attention to your students. You are concerned about your students success because you constantly try to cater to your students. I bet your students appreciate your caring ways.
Patricia
Hi Susan,
This is also a good way for students to utilize critical thinking and problem solving skills.
Patricia
When I meet a class for the first time and we go over how I try to assist them when they may have an issue or a situation to where they disagree with another student, answers on an exam, or with me. Once again to come to me with their complaint, but must be respectful and they need to come to me with a solution to the problem. I tell them the solution may not be the answer that time, but it shows me they put thought into the problem and was willing to think it through. When I have them write down their complaint or the events in which something happened (maybe at a extern site) I leave the room so they don't feel pressured with my presence. I let them know I will check on them from time to time to see if they need any assistance or if they have completed their writing. This has helped me tremendously.
If by reduce you mean prevent student complaints and challenges from arising, rather than minimizing their effects, I use the techniques of classroom management that I have learned so far. First, I have tried to make the course policies clear in terms of due dates, grading criteria, test dates, etc. I constantly remind students of the policies and what's expected from them each day, so that there are no surprises. At these points, I also ask for student input. Second, I have been trying to monitor students and catch any early warning signs. If I see a student has not submitted an assignment on time, I talk with them or send them an email asking if they need any extra help. If I see bored students in my class or generally disgruntled looks, I try changing the in class activity to something more engaging in order to engage them more in the content. Of course the most important thing I do is listen. I have received numerous complaints in person, by email, and over the phone, and all of them were resolved positively because I listened to their situations and did what I could to solve their problems in an honest and open way.
What are some strategies that instructors can use to reduce student complaints and challenges?
I agree with the module, I think we can always listen to students and try to figure out where they're coming from.
Also, giving the students a chance to write down their complaints should not only alleviate some of their anger, but also clarify what the problem really is. From there, we may be able to find a way to help.
I think if we allow students a chance to talk with us about their issues, we can reduce a number of complaints and we may find we have fewer "challenging" students.
Hi Thomas,
What a good method to use for relationship building. You are really showing your students how much you really care. I am sure your students appreciate the conversations.
Patricia
Tiffany,
Good point about reviewing the rubric, too. I am sure it eliminates questions afterwards.
I like to set the tone by laying out clear expectations for students on the first day. I let them know what I expect in terms of their behavior and performance. I try to make students aware that I expect them to treat each other and myself the way that they would want to be treated (the golden rule). This lets everyone know that the learning environment is a safe place where we are going to respect each other.
In terms of their academic requirements, I also make it very clear what I want to see from them in a rubric. This helps minimize any issues that could come up when grading papers. We also spend class time going through the rubrics several times so that everyone is on the same page. I have found this to be helpful because students are less likely to come to you for a grade change when they know they left something out because I can use the rubric to point out where points were deducted.
One method I use is to talk to each student individualy after the first few weeks. This gives me time to do some relationship-building with my students. Then I ask them if they have any complaints or suggestions about the class. If they do I listen and thank them for their input. This makes them feel that they are more than just a student,there is a more positive atmosphere. This also gives me the opportunity to talk to students who need help or an "attitude" adjustment. They appreciate it when it is done in private.
Hi Paul,
I've noticed that introvert students can also come out of their shell whenever they are put into small groups. The introvert student shuts down in larger groups.
Patricia
Hello Dee,
I just experienced this today. I heard a student out. The student thanked me for listening and for being fair. Sometimes all students want us to do is simply listen to them.
Patricia
The advise to put shy students in small work groups is a great idea. I have had very good success putting shy students in a group so that they can share their knowledge or expertise and utilize another student to present the results.
Hello Arthur,
Expectations should be very black and white with no room for gray areas. As long as students know up front what is expected, things generally run smoothly.
Patricia
Hello Vanessa,
Your calm demeanor, normally calms the student. I believe in taking a calm approach with students.
Patricia
Hi Susan,
I too utilize this approach. It does minimize the complaints. Students really do appreciate it whenever the instructor goes over the correct answers. I've had many students to thank me.
Patricia
