Common instructor mistakes
Answering Questions – The instructor’s job is to help students learn. A common complaint I hear from students is that their instructor wouldn’t answer their questions. This sends the message that the instructor doesn’t care enough to help students. Or, it may be that he or she doesn’t know the answer. But if that is so, the instructor has displayed disregard for students by not being prepared to answer their questions.
I agree with Patricia that it is our business to answer questions. If a student is to feel the instructor is credible, this type of avoidance only undermines that and the student is made to feel that the instructor is not knowlegable on the subject or doesn't care for the student. Either way it makes a negative aspect for the classroom.
Hi Kelly,
I am in total agreement! We are in the business to answer questions. I dislike it very much when an insructor doesn't answer a student's question or even more help guide them to the right answer, thus making the students think on their own. I have no problem with students thinking on their own, but I will assist if there is a need.
Patricia
