Empathy
I sometimes feel in a losing position when it comes to empathy in a student/faculty relationship. I certainly unerstand that we as individual and family participants have several demands on our time. However, I seem to have a hard time discerning what is the truth and what is a lame excuse. I try to set the ground work on day one when it comes to attendance policies and explain I understand there may be reasons for student absences and that I understand. However, I believe that this sets a dangereous precendence and gives them the ammunition for missing class. I also have the pleasure of teaching these students in their last class before their externship.
Hi Annette,
This is true. By giving them the benefit of the doubt you are showing that you trust them and will continue to do so as long as they return that trust back. For many students this is just what they need to get excited and be encouraged that they can be successful in school.
Gary
I agree. It is also helpful to discuss concerns about students with other instructors to see if they have had a problem. I think as an instructor we need to give the students the benefit of the doubt the first time.
Great advise - I think as an Instructor you have to firm yet flexible. Stating clear expectation the first several weeks of class help to ensure this clarity. I also feel you have to go with your gut feeling at times and give the students the benefit of the doubt with their first request for an extension or request.
Instructors have to develop their own methods, and learn to be flexible and how to deal with student situations fairly.
There are ways of being empathetic without being taken advantage of. While granting more time for an assignment is nice, it is not necessary in order to be empathetic. One can show and feel empathy without compromising a grade. If a student seems to be taking advantage of an instructor's leeway, the instructor can shut this down by showing empathy without giving extra time for assignments or tests.
Hi John,
This is always a tough area for instructors. We want to hold high the standards and also show some empathy when needed. In doing so we get taken advantage of once in a while. I try to be understanding as I can be without compromising and of the course standards and I make this point very clear with my students. It seems to work well most of the time.
Gary
I agree sometimes the line is blurred and you end up questioning everything you are doing just to figure out what is truth and what is fiction.
