Difficult student
I like the idea of handing out colored cards to each student to allow them to ask that many questions during the class. Sometimes I think students like to ask questions to get the instructor off track.
That same policy is included on day one during the review of the syllabus.
Be careful limiting the number of questions the students are allowed to ask during class. You don't want them to feel as tho if they are out of cards they can't get thier questions answered. I understand that some students do purposly ask questions designed to throw every one off track, but as an instructor you have to learn how to control the discussion.
"Difficult student" is a very broad term and it, of course, depends on what the difficulty is. If it's a matter of disrupting the class because of class conduct they have already been warned once during the introductory class when we review the standards. If they continue to disrupt the class with inappropriate behavior they need to be removed.
Hi Jeffrey,
How do you typically deal with difficult students? I will warn them once and not again. They will be removed from my class if the inappropriate behavior continues.
Patricia Scales
As the intructor, you have the lesson plan and know how much time is allotted. If the question is off topic you can table it for the end of class if there is time to address it. You might also suggest it as a reseach project for the student.
Hello Joan,
This is a good topic. I didn't consider that by being a 'difficult student' they were trying to, possibly even subconsciously, to get the instructor or even class, off track. But you are right they are doing just that.
I find it difficult to say the right thing at the right time to quiet them. I may appear to be rude and this only causes more difficulties with the student and often class perception of me.
This is something I know I need to work on. I hope this training will help me to reflect on better ways to handle the difficult students. I have already learned one new tip 'reassess myself!'
Best wishes, Wynell
Hi Joan,
Some students will try to get the instructor off track. As the instructor you have to use good judgement when it is time to reel your students back in so that they are kept on task.
Patricia Scales
