Student that is disrespectful to other students
I recently had a situation in which I was discussing the respiratory system with students and a student may a very racial-laced comment. I just stated that I had never heard that and moved on with my lecture rather than give the student more of the attention. Later, however, another student approached me and said she felt that since I did not make a bigger deal out of it, that it had offended her. How can I effectively deal with this situation without losing the entire day of material?
Hi Robert,
Adults should be able to carry on a professinal conversation pertaining to the lesson without become so offended that things get ugly. As you mentioned, there are times when you know you must intervene in order to keep peace. As long as you can manage these type discussions, I encourage you to continue to have them.
Patricia
This is a very interesting post for me because my subject matter naturally brings up many elements that are directly related to different cultures, regions of the world and class distinctions. I have found that it is very important to establish ground rules for respecting other students, but also that by carrying out these discussions, much like another respondent mentioned, students are encouraged to think through information critically. I like to include in my preliminary materials for my courses a discussion of source reliability and the evils of categorical statements or stereotyping. Do not be discouraged. Some students are very sensitive and will be offended if issues of gender, age, race, ethnicity, etc. are brought up at all. I find it is important for many of my students who are sensitive about these matters to learn how to have professional conversations about these topics. Though I always jump in if I fear that a comment is blatantly offensive, I make sure to reaffirm to that all students the importance of being able to carry on professional conversation. Though we have all heard not to bring up such things as guests at someone's dinner table, certainly in academic classes students ought to be able to voice all sincere concerns and have their thoughts cordially critiqued.
I also like to inform students from day one that I will not tolerate any disrespect and they will be removed from my class for the day if any should occur.
On the very first day I make it a point that I do not tolerate disrespect toward others in my class, and state that dismissal for the rest of the day may be expected. I also point out that this sort of behavior is disruptive and unfair to all of the other students, to whom is my primary responsibility. I present this as part of going over the syllabus, and in that way, my students know right off the bat what sort of behavior is not acceptable.
Hi Krista,
Great points! Students must learn how to respect others. Respecting others is expected in the workplace, otherwise repercussions will come about.
Patricia
Hi Krista,
I would have asked the student where they heard that to find out if it was reputable, or if it was just "hearsay". If it was from a possible reputable source, but still unsure, I would give the whole class an assignment to research that statement out and bring their results into the class tomorrow and we will further discuss it. I have a very diverse program of many ethnic backgrounds. I feel that the student's need to learn what not to discuss and what to discuss in an open forum. I want all students to understand what is a racist comment and what is not a proven fact. If it is a proven fact, I want the proof.
Hi Krista,
Remove her from the class until you are at a breaking point. Deal with her behind closed doors. Have a very firm conversation and let her know that you will not tolerate that type of behavior, and it is not to happen again. Document the situation, and place the document in her file.
Patricia
