Acknowledging Student Frustrations
I have 150 students each quarter, in 6 classes, 4 different course topics and at 3 different campuses. Each day I encounter students with many of the frustrations described in this session. I start out all my classes with a time for "class news". This is where I give my students an opportunity to talk about anything going on with them since the last time we met. We set a time limit for this "venting". Usually students find something positive to talk about, but many do find it a great opportunity to unburden themselves with no fear of repercussions.
Elise,
I think the venting period is a good way to "debrief," as Module 2 put it. I was wondering how this would work when I was going through the module, and the way you do this seems to be a good way of letting the students vent, then move on.
Do you try to end the venting session with a positive announcement or some praise for students' progress in the class, or do the students have the last word?
These venting sessions are also an opportunity to ask the students to come up with possible solutions.
Hi Elise,
I understand this completely. College often evaluate courses and instructors at times when stress is the highest for students. The results generally are not that good because the students don't really focus on course improvement but vent about things that are bugging them. This is why I have the students give me feedback after they complete projects or assignments. This way I get the students' feedback on something they have just completed and can tell me accurately how it worked for them rather than waiting until some weeks later when their memories are not as clear.
Also, some students will be harsh in their comments not matter the situation because that is who they are. They like to blame others for their failures and the instructor is a main target. These need to be ignored, though it is hard to do when you are personally attacked.
Teaching is tough when this occurs. I try to ignore the language, benefit from the suggestions and move forward with the course.
Gary
Student frustrations also come out in our mid-quarter evaluations. This is hard for the instructor because frustrated students often present their comments using somewhat harsh language. I always assure my students that I take their comments seriously, but the best thing they can write is constructive comments that will help me become a better instructor.
Hi Elise,
Good way to let them let off a little steam if they need to, share some positive news if they have it and then get ready for the instruction that will be coming. This helps to keep the focused on the class since they got the issues out of the way at the beginning.
Gary
