Respect in an adult environment
I think it is important to remember that I am teaching the adult learner, and they seem to respond better when they receive the appropriate respect.
I think it is often difficult to distinguish between a lack of respect for the instructor and a lack of respect for an institution. It is often necessary to balance the needs of managing a successful classroom environment with the larger goal of engaging and motivating all students: many of whom have had less than a stellar educational experience. I find it helpful to remove my own ego from the situation and remind myself that what seems like a deliberate attempt to disrespect me may actually be an attempt, conscious or otherwise, to mask their fear of failure. There are times when a teacher has to be a disciplinarian but for me, it is always a last resort.
Hi Sandra,
Class management is always something that a instructor has to be on top of. From the very beginning of class you need to establish your policy of what is acceptable behavior in the classroom. Then enforce it. Be consistent. Follow through with stopping what is going on and deal with it. First by talking with the student(s) privately and explaining that this behavior is not acceptable. Then should it occur again deal with it immediately. Get the backing of your administration so you can remove a student(s) if the behavior is disruptive to others. I know student retention is the ultimate goal but keeping students that working out is wrong for everyone including the misbehaving students.
Gary
Although this is an adult learner environment; I have had the displeasure of adolescent behaviors that is at times, out of control. How do you as an instructor control unprofessional behavior and crude comments?
These "adult" learners are so diverse. Some are college aged while others have been working for 20 years and coming back to school. We definitely have to employ a range of strategies.
A bit of respect goes a long way.Peoples actions can be driven by some unknown factors,and the 'big me little you' approach doesn't always sit well.Respect can be lost alot easier than it can be gained.
I agree. Treating adults as "Kids" is a recipe for disaster. The problem is that sometimes Instructors don't even realize which of their behaviors are resentful to their students. Often it's the small, subtle things.
Reseect is a two way street. The respect you are shown by your students reflect on the level of respect they feel you are showing them
