Students smarter than the course.
One of the most difficult things is having students take courses that they can easily pass. Introduction to Computers for example is a very easy class for a computer savvy student. The students think they will not learn anything and then have trouble with engaging in the course. Those students tend to sit in the back of the room and be disruptive. I try to have those people as instructor helpers to keep them engaged and interacting with other students. It also helps the other students get another voice to help explain items that are difficult.
Hi Kristi,
You handled this like a champ. Some instructors would have been intimidated by the nurse with many years of experience. You simply used her experience to educate others. Way to go!
Patricia
I teach a Pathology class and one of my students has been a nurse in a doctors office for close to 20 years. I was a little concerned at the beginning of the quarter that she would become bored. I encouraged her to share her stories. Alot of the time this will open discussions with the entire class. I find it very affective because in this manner, students can remember real life stories moreso than just "definitions". Not only that, but it encourages other students to tell their experiences, which the nurse has never encountered.
I agree, i like the fact that you have them as "Instructor helpers". During lectures, I try to use their advance knowledge for the course to help their peers who are having a difficult time with the subject. Get the them more involved and they wont be bored so much. I also challenge them with critically thinking related to the course. I suggest preparing ahead of time with advanced students. I also explain to them this is a prime example of the real world workforce, where supervisors help their co-workers thrive and in turn they become more understanding and humble.
Hi Kim,
Absolutely! I do not care how much you know, you do not know everything. I tell these students privately and quickly, I admire their knowledge base, but I need them to allow me teach the class because their are others who know very little, and I can assure them that they will learn something new. If the student is not cooperative, I have them removed from my class. Generally, the students are very receptive to the conversation.
Patricia
I run into this problem a lot in my computer classes. Students often say, I don’t know why they are making me take this class, I already know everything you are going to teach me. These are the students who I find myself calling on more often and responding to their discussion threads with deep thoughts and probing questions. If they think they already know it all, I am going to make them prove it to me and to their classmates.
I have also learned these types of students are not the type who can lead a group project. They are impatient with others who are trying to learn the concepts as well as the vocabulary.
I have yet to teach a class where at the end these “know-it-all†student did not admit they had learned something in the class. Even with the “know-it-all†student technology changes so fast, there is always something new to learn.
Hi Linda,
Great scenarios! This type of student definitely has to be challenged so that they can become more humble in their experience.
Patricia
You've hit upon an excellent scenario we all face at some point. You are right about trying to engage those students as helpers with other students.
Have you tried give them more advanced material?
How 'bout unplugging various cords so the computer doesn't work and the student has to figure it out.
How 'bout they do a presentation on a specific computer function such as binary system, history of computer, what is a computer, etc. It will keep them busy, but more importantly, give them a different perspective as well as opportunity to hone their skills with a oral presentation.
These students do keep you on your toes, thinking fast!
