Student Frustrations
One thing that I can say about each instructor is that we have all been there. Most of us have completed a bachelor’s degree and a lot of us have gone higher. It is so important to know that the frustrations that students feel are the same as when we were students. Now that as an instructor you know the level playing field, it is important to communicate with students on the issues they are facing. Once they hear that you have tips and tools for success and share your educational experience with them they are more likely to listen on how to overcome certain frustrations.
Hi Carolyn,
I always smile when a student tells me that I understand what they are going through when they struggle with balancing life and being a student. They don't think any of us ever sit where they are setting. I guess they think that we were just gifted with our knowledge and experience without putting forth the effort to acquire what we have. That is why you make such a good point about letting them know you have sit where they are and that you are there to support them if they will put forth the effort.
Gary
When a student shows their frustration, I remind them that I was sitting right where they are now and I made it through. I make sure to tell them to keep their Focus on their career goal..
Hi Steven,
You make a very good point about frustrations. We instructors cannot let our frustrations creep into the classroom no matter how valid they may be. By keeping above the issues like this we present ourselves as professionals that want to help our students be successful. We need to keep our dedication to our students.
Gary
I know at some point each instructor is faced with a multitude of student frustrations. In my personal experience I start with the ability to let the students speak to me, not allowing myself to get caught into the mix of their frustrations. However, when I share those frustrations, it seems as if management does not take them seriously or at the same time does not address these issues. As a management changes from year to year or even throughout the course of a fiscal year, it seems as if nothing is ever addressed. How do you not blame a student with regards to their frustrations when you almost share the same frustrations. I have never shared my frustrations with my students as it shows my lack of dedication of not only the institution that I work for, but also their education.
This is so true. I remember all the times I "freaked out" over an exam or a project. I remember all the long hours of study and hard work. It is important for our students to realize we do know where they are coming from. It gives us some common ground to stand on with our students. It also is good to communicate how all the skills and knowledge you have learned really applies in the real world or in the employment field. Students perk up at this and feel more connection to their instructor and the material they are learning.
I agree. Remembering our own educational experiences, the frustrations we had, the needs we had as students, the stressors we experienced is so important as we communicate with our students. As the campus librarian, I think I hear about the students' frustrations and stress, etc. perhaps even more than the instructors on our campus do. When the students know that I have been there, too, and made it through, I think that encourages them and also makes them feel more comfortable with me.
