A student just waiting for class to end...
I recently had a student in one of my classes who was so uninterested and seemingly disinterested in the course. I was shocked! I did not blame her I blamed myself. So, I tried different activities, put the class in small groups, and even managed to incorporate some relevant jokes. I strived to get the attention of this ONE student (as well as the others) but it was very difficult. I purposely reconfigured things in class, but to no avail did it excite or intice her. The student never spoke in class, and when I called on her, she never had an answer or response. I figured atleast I would be able to engage her for the final presentation when she was to present her project to the class. But she didn't even show up! Even now I look for that type of student in my current classes and try to find ways to deal with that level of non-interest. I found it sad.
It has taken me over a year to come to terms with a student who doesn't care about learnig. I have learned to not put as much effort in trying to get them interested (because they have already made up their mind) and started to focus more on those who are interested. This has taken out some stress from my life!
Hi Chyrisse,
I agree, but they have control of doing their homework. It does break your heart because you want to see them succeed! We have to have very tough skin as educators.
Patricia
Hi, Patricia...This is so frustrating! The worst feeling is flunking a student, especially when you know they have potential. I have students who attend every class, participate in the discussions but neglect to do homework. This is so frustrating! Thanks! Chyrisse
Hello Chyrisse,
I had a student that admitted she purposely failed to courses last grading period because she is afraid to graduate. Everyone has talked to this student at great length. We think she is going to move forward. We'll see.
Patricia
Hi, Brandi...I agree with Dawn. It looks like you did steps to entice the student. There could have been underlying distractions (e.g., problems at work, home, etc.) Maybe she lacked confidence and has never really succeeded in the past. I swear some students have "fear of success" because of lack of self-esteem. They fulfill their role as a failure by sabotaging all efforts to succeed.
Hello Shantelle,
I've come to realize some students are very content with just getting by, especially if the course is not a core course for them. You can turn cartwheels, and they will not get excited. Do the best you can and move forward.
Patricia
Sometimes you get the student in your class, that just needs the course to get by and move on in their program. I remember, as a student, that I did not put as much effort into one of my courses because I knew I was not interested in the direction that particular class would take me in my field and I wouldn't be using it ever again...but I had to complete the course for my degree.
I've had a couple students like that...I was able to tell by the third or fourth week, who they were, which one's are there just to get by. I'm not saying to ignore them by any means, but all your effort in the world will not phase them, and tire yourself in the meantime.
Hi Dawn,
Great advice. It typically works.
Patricia
Brandi,
It sounds like you did everything that you could to intice the student. It does not sound like there is a problem with your teaching skills. Sometimes it is just hard to reach the student. Did you try talking to the student to see if there were some underlying problems that was preventing her from wanting to participate? I think you did all you could and maybe next time talking with them one on one might be a way to get an inside look at the problem.
