My most challenging student's are non-committed student's who are going to school to gratify other people's wishes. Also they have not invested themselves into the process of their education.They do not see themselves in the postition for which they are going to school.Show them the WIIFM ( What's in it for me)
My most challenging students are the ones that seem to have a negative attitude about everything, but especially the class. I think this negativity comes, in part, from their inability to understand the relevancy of the course.
The way I have dealt with this so far is to put all the emphasis on myself and my abilities. Since I am a new instructor, I realize that I need to constantly continue to adjust my methods so that I can engage all of the students in the course content. I think that this problem can be reduced by reminding them each day where the class is headed and how each unit is important for their overall understanding. Also, I have realized that I have been teaching at level that is too challenging for most and this has contributed to the frustration resulting negativity.
My most challenging students so far are students who have excuses. One or two of the students have more excuses that the rest of the class combined. I am available before and after class to review the work and expectations. We have been meeting. I also have an agenda printed up for each class with what will be covered that day and the homework/reading assignment to be completed before the next class. I ask questions to be sure there is understanding of expectations.
Who are your most challenging students and what strategies have you found to be most effective in working with them?
I find that my most challenging student is the inattentive one; the one who is on his/her cellphone or conversing with another student throughout the lecture.
First, I ask if there's a question; if there isn't, I ask/tell them not to talk during lecture. I then remind the class that I encourage participation, so long as it's organized. Everyone deserves an opportunity to hear what's being said.
If the behavior continues, I talk with the student outside of class. I try to figure out why the behavior persists by asking about their life outside of the classroom. Maybe there's something I can do/help with.
I find this tends to help, but it's not perfect.
I haven't tried the "Observer" role, but I could see it working with the interested, but somewhat disruptive student.
I agree with you. My most challenging students are young students and are trying to figure out work, school, children, and their life. I try to teach a lot of time management and have them prioritize their life early on. Students can be so overwhelmed and just start going through the motions without trying. I apply every lecture to a real world scenario. I have them interact with the lecture and make them a part of it, rather than just listening to me talk. They become excited when they know they will be doing this in the future. The inattentive students need a driving passion behind them to guide the way.
Jennifer Thompson, B.S., R.V.T.
The student who comes unprepared for class. I use the ungraded quiz a lot. This lets the student know you are serious about the material also, it provides a good review of material that is needed for the class.
I have found students start to prepare better for class knowing they are going to have these quizzed. I remind students this is the only extra credit they will get, so by preparing for class, understadning the material will translate into a better test. Which will lead to a better grade.
Hi T.,
It is extremely difficult for some students to transit from high school to college. Generally, if you have a firm conversation with the student this will normally take care of things. Sometimes you even have to take that student under your wing.
Patricia
Hello Daniel,
I am sure you have realized that we serve as everything to our students, such as sounding boards, mentors, advisors, friends, counselors, cheerleaders, etc. Most of the students need us.
Patricia
Hello Scott,
The Boundary-Pushers will challenge the instructor in every way possible, if allowed. As soon as the student starts, it needs to be halted by the instructor very swiftly and quickly.
Patricia
The "I'm only taking this class because it's required" Student: make regular reference to the professional workplace, using anecdotes and examples of how mastery of the course subject matter gives the student an advantage over those lacking same.
The Boundary-Pushers (whether though raucous behavior, indifference to the course policies, or direct challenges to the instructor's authority, they push the limits): public reiteration of course policies, private conference (although, occasionally, a public announcement of the private conference..."John: hallway. Now." can be necessary); and occasionally, give as good as you get.
you are wright they are just out of high school and never been away from home they need alot of support that some times never got
Patricia,
I think that's great! It has helped with the atmosphere around campus and helped with retention and attendance.
John
Hello Stanley,
The points that you made in the last two statements would be excellent to focus on during the first day of class.
Patricia
Hi Mary,
Some people must be taught to be held accountable. The younger generation struggles with this concept.
Patricia
Hi Tyson,
What a psychological approach. This approach really gives the blameless Bobs something to think about.
Patricia
Hi John,
My institution does to. They have experts in all areas, and it is FREE!
Patricia
I find my most challenging students ae the ones that are inattentive during the class. Typically they are the ones that are transitioning from high school to college.
I do have the class break into group discussion and I also call upon them to participate in class discussions.
I think my most challenging students are the "blameless Bobs". These students can be very challenging. Generally, I let the student take control. If they are continously trying to turn in late work, then I will ask them why I should take allow the late work to be turned in. I accomplish this by assigning an essay outlining why I should accept the work, and how it is fair to the other students if I choose to. Usually, the student will not put forth the extra effort and then the fault lies at the students doorstep. If the extra effort is given by the student and the essay is positive, then I will accept the late work however, there are still penalties.
Tyson
Hi Carla,
You are on point. The older student has so many different problems, and we as educators must do the very best we can to let them know that they still can finish college. We must encourage and support them.
Patricia
Hi Russell,
I make it a point to ask every student a question because I do not want anyone to be on the hot plate. The students see that I am asking everyone.
Patricia
