How do you handle students who pin instructors against each other?
I am a clinical instructor where there are usually 3 instructors on the floor at one time. Sometimes the students will say, "That's not what Ms. X says to do." or "Ms. X showed us this way." Other than running back to that instructor and saying, "they said this is how you do it or told them to do it," how else can I handle this?
Hi Joanne,
Instructors should always support each other. First of all at my institution, instructors are not allowed to discuss another instructor with students. This helps reduce complaints/concerns about another instructor.
Patricia Scales
Our first day of class all instructors introduce pthemselves and show a united front.
We each are aware of what is going on in each class as we meet daily and discuss the issues.
The students see us as one unit as opposed to separate rules.
This has cut down ojn many issues
I would never, ever talk about another faculty/staff with a student or faculty/staff person.
Hi Taiya,
Absolutely, never put down another instructor in front of the students. Instructors must stick together! Cohesiveness is key.
Patricia Scales
We use a "team taching" approach and have had many students try to pit "mom" against "dad". The way we resolve this back and forth is to not make spot decisions or say anything negative about the other instructor. ie: she's wrong and I'm right, as this creates a huge divide. Instead, we will tell the students that we will discuss the point of contention with eachother and get back to them with an answer.
Hi Stefanie,
The three instructors need to get together and talk about how each of you do the procedures, and you all should decide which method that each of you will use. Consistency is key!!
Patricia Scales
