Listen
challenging students want to be heard, because they are usually not heard at hom or by their peers so this is their time to be heard and they us the class room as their stage.
I will always listen to a point when a student wants the class's attention. I will sum up the points and move on. I usually don't engage the student in terms of argument of being right or wrong.
Hi Carla,
I see your point about deviating from the given topic. From time to time, I allow my students to deviate from the given topic to break the ice. You do get to know each other better whenever you can have open discussions.
Patricia
I completely agree with your post as well! Often times I tell my students that we are all each other's best "resources" and I think that it allows students the opportunity to learn how to "network" in preparation for when they will begin looking for and working in their chosen career field. I also think that from time to time a little "class discussion" that deviates from the given topic is refreshing and makes the students feel more comfortable with themselves, each other, and me, as the instructor. Maybe it doesn't work well for every instructor, but I feel like sometimes my students really "need" to have a sounding board and I'm glad that they feel comfortable enough in our classroom setting to do so (within reason, of course!).
Hello Teasha,
There are some students that will consume all of your time. If a student has in depth situation that I need to listen to, I invite the student to my office at a time that is good for the both of us, and I simply listen.
Patricia
I absolutley agree that they might just want someone to listen. If I find it is taking up too much time, I will refocus the group and tell the student how I would love to chat more after class. than I will remind the whole class that they may email me or leave a voicemail if they ever need to. Teasha Elder
Hello Myra,
Perhaps we are thinking of different scenarios. If the information is relevant sure, otherwise it needs to be nipped in the bud.
Patricia
Patricia, I respectfully disagree to an extent with you.
It depends on the situation as to whether it is disrupting the class and, thus, needs "nipped in the bud". I have had classes where if it weren't for the more out-going students participating in the discussion, I would be the only one talking.
Perhaps we are thinking of different scenarios...
Hello Vincent,
It amazes me as an educator to learn how many adults are starving for attention. They will do whatever needs to be done in the classroom to get attention. We must nip it in the bud because it is not fair to the other students.
Patricia
