I like your idea of using class questionnaires; the thing that we would need to keep in mind is that every student learns differently, and we cannot conform to every student's ideas, but we can certainly entertain and even use some.
I think that overall classroom/course expectations start with the syllabus. This should cover most student's concerns and should contain clear/concise expectations. And, students and instructors alike should be able to refer back for answers to questions throughout the class.
If I have students that complain I will often times pull them aside or outside the classroom and have a discussion. Often time I get complaints from them about home or work unrelated to the classroom. I do my best to listen to them and console them. If I get complains about my class work, which I get once in a while I remind the student that they are in college now and they are required to work hard in order to get a degree.
Hi Robert,
It takes a team to deal with students effectively. The team approach is a very strong idea.
Patricia Scales
One method that is use is to let the students know from day one that if they come to me with a complaint or problem that I will immediately involve other members of the staff, our Lead Instructor, Director of Student Services and /or our Dean. Here at our school we use a team approach so that matters like these involve more that just the instructor.
Hi Herbert,
I love your attitude! You have the attitude that will build strong professional relationships with students.
Patricia Scales
When a student complains I listen very carefully then explain the reason. For example, I have a student who asked me if he needed to participate in the discussion forum. I explained to him that this counted towards 3 points for his grade because he needed to participate 3 times in the discussion. This enables discussions to take place where students can provide their opinions that others may not agree on, it teaches them how to interact with others who have differences of opinions and how to show respect and think of the other person's views.
Debra
I feel by clearly communicating the course requirements and my expectations at the beginning of the course, being actively involved with my students during class, and making myself available to help them before or after class in the classroom, that I have less student issues, and my students know I’m working to help them succeed.
The few times I do have students that have attitude or complaints, I have met with the student and listen to what their problem is. I use my life experiences and what I know, to help them reach an understanding of their issue.
Addressing my students concerns are part of my job, and what may be a trivial concern or complaint for one person may be a monumental problem for another.
I like to check in with my students and give several opportunities for questions and clarifications as we proceed, especially with their projects and studying for exams. Seeing if they feel that their techniques are working on an ongoing basis and reinforcing the expectations and requirements keeps them headed in the right direction...or allows for redirection if needed.
I like what you said about giving sometime to vent a complaints with the class and make sure all issues are address. Then explain your expectation with your class this will help the students understand you. This helps the class move to working with you and together.
Reducing complaints by making sure everyone knows whats required for passing the class and to ask daily how everyone is doing on the requirements.As for challenges I say to look at them as learnig experiences and some need more effort then others.we are all still learning( Michaelangelo's motto)
Hi Paul,
Sometimes just by having the student put their concern in writing, this technique calms the student.
Patricia Scales
Instructors should have the student write out their complaint and challenge as many times that allows the student to more clearly understand the issue. I then would have a discussion with the student to see if I could further help them come to an understanding of what the root of the issue is and how we can find solutions.
I like to have a solutions focused dialog.
Hi Lynn,
Lesson plans keep you on point and avoid time being wasted. Planning is very important.
Patricia Scales
I love some of the comments! For myself I find on a day to day basis writing out a plan for the class time on the board is very helpful. It cuts down on the " What do we do next" after I have explained in detail.
Make sure you have the course objectives and expectations written down and clearly gone over at the beginning and then stick with them.
Hi Mitchell,
Listening is key! Sometimes students simply just want to be heard. Students feel a sense of importance when they are listened to.
Patricia Scales
For me the single biggest thing and instructor can do to reduce complaints is to listen to what the student has to say and respond honestly and fairly. Some complaints are valid, some are not but consistency must be maintained in handling them. Sometimes a complaint might show me that I had been wrong/incorrect and I need to be open to that possibiliy. On the other hand if the complaint is misguided or unwarranted it may well benefit the student if I listen and help guide them to understanding the truth in the situation.
Hi Jessica,
Listening is a must. Students really do feel like we geniunely care about them when we listen to them. A student does not care how much you know until they know how much you care.
Patricia Scales
Define out the expectations, and policies of the class. You acnnot avoid all challenges, but a good strong syllabus will hlep defend you position. Listen to the student and look at their point of view, even if inaccurate, let them speak and you should listen. Evaluate the claims and provide appropriate and timely response to the student
If you listen to your students complaints, they will see that you do care about their opinions and want them to succeed. It also builds their trust in you therefore creating a positive rapport. After listening, we discuss the issue and try to come up with a fair resolution. I think I will give the put your complaint in writing tactic. It sounds like a good idea, or maybe a suggestion box or something like that.
