Students do better in class when they know what is expected of them I think that they do need some challenge. some students wants everything handed to them but you do have some that want and needs the challenge.
Hi all, good ideas all hopefully not only I being consistent but the whole campus as well
Hi Faith,
Exactly. You must maintain the standards of your profession and of being a professional educator. Anything else will only result in very difficult times for both the students and the instructor.'
Gary
Hi Anthony,
IMHO:The standards have already been set in the student course guide, during orientation, then (should be) reinforced on day one, then projected by the instructor as a role model. It should come as no surprise to the student that certain expectations are in place, without need for rigidity. Willingness to cooperate and abide by the standards (notice I did not say "rules") that EACH STUDENT HAS AGREED UPON WHEN THEY ENROLLED, are part of the grading process. I make this well known in my classes. This is bad news for a small percentage of individuals and great news for most others.
I also agree with Nicole's viewpoint on leniency. Once you loosen professional and behavioral standards, it becomes easier and easier for other students to do the same. In my opinion, it is always better to enforce standards, than attempting to climb that proverbial "slippery slope."
Hi Nicole,
You hit upon a key point concerning being the example. You are the role model for the course and the career field the students are training for so you must reflect the professional standards of that field.
Gary
Must never show an lenient approach, due to it takes one student to take advantage of a situation(for ex. not wearing there scrubs to class.)If that one student does it often the rest of students will take advantage. Must always set an example.
I appreciate your input and will strive to enforce the standards in a consistent manner but with care. I believe you have to set goals but need to temper that with what will help the student understand that you care enough to have high expectations of them
Hi Anthony,
Your approach needs to be consistent and related to safety and career standards. Depending on the circumstances there are situations where you may extend a deadline or change a requirement based upon the information you have. A key part of being a teacher is having an understanding of the needs of students and the situation within which they find themselves.
Gary
since not everyone enforces "discipline" it would be hard for me to tell you what to do or not to do. im a big believer in it. it wont hurt the students to be a drill sergeant for a few hours during their day. besides, they'll come out stronger and fearless..
In my experience, it is always better to set the standards and stick to them in the beginning. You can always loosen up a bit later when you know the students better. If you don't lay down the law in the beginning, you risk losing credibility with the students. Some students will walk all over you if you waver in the beginning. Set deadlines and make sure there are consequences if they are not met! Then, as individual matters come up, you can make the exceptions that you feel are deserved.