Angry & Disruptive
It seems to me that at a certain point, angry students turn the rest of the class on themselves (which can make them even angrier). The other students are there to learn, and by letting them talk it out all the time, it takes up class time and slows class progress. Sure it's better than having that student explode, but at some point, don't you need to just pull the student out and discipline them instead of letting them vent to the class?
And if it doesn't turn the class on them, I would think that anger/ frustration is potentially contagious and could spread through the class if we're too soft or if we let them voice it often.
This term has been very difficult for my students. A lot of my students are fragile and on the edge when they arrive in class, so I tend to do a lot of reassuring in my classes. I have felt that by creating a safe place for students, then tend to relax more.
I don't why but I seem to have had my fair share of angry and disruptive students through the years. I learned a couple of good techniques --
first I walk closer to the individual (keeping the space tighter) your standing and they are sitting helps tone down a shouting student.
I have asked the student to stay afterclass and have a polite discussion --- you seemed very aggreviated in class --- what can I do to help?
Then listen.
If the student contines then I will ask that they be respectful or else I will have to ask them to leave the classroom.
This is something that needs to be managed --- an angry student that takes over the classroom hampers other students from learning and feeling comfortable within your classroom.
Hi Philip,
If the exchange gets worse make sure to get higher authority involved. Never subject yourself to danger.
Patricia
I try to listen and understand the angry student's concern. However, I had an experience last fall when an angry student would not back down, and the exchange escalated a bit. The experience and suggestions in this module will help me handle it better if this type of situation occurs again.
Phil L.
Hi Michael,
You handle this type student nicely.
Patricia
I do not let it get very far. If a student show that they are angry and become diruptive I will take them outside the class room or wait until a break and we will have a talk. This talk will be listening on my part and if I can give advice i will. I have been sucesfull in most cases but now and again that student needs to leave.
Hi Anthony,
Nip it in the bud. Do not let one bad apple spoil the whole bunch. Angry students need to be handled quick and swiftly.
Patricia
