It's a good strategy to address the student on a one-on-one basis to seek out the sources of the anger. Wanda Bailey
First of all, show concern and a willingness to be open to listening. A student yelled at me in front of the class, but I did not yell back. I just showed my willingness to listen and then let them sit there and think about what just happened. The student wasn't angry at me, but at other students. He calmed down, I invited him to come see me after class and we talked about the situation calmly. It was resolved amicably.
Wow. This is interesting. I agree that some students are angry before even stepping into the classroom due to some situation that may have nothing to do with you or the class. There are however several students who have a predetermined opinion of the instructor based on conversations they have with each other outside of class. I have personally experienced an extremely hostile class that actually waited about four weeks in to reveal their true feelings. The majority of the hostility had arisen from thoughts and feelings from students who had previously taken the class, and for whatever reason they felt justified in themselves, they essentially polluted the next pool of students entering my classroom. This is a very difficult obstruction to overcome. Most of the hostility stemmed from the simple act of enforcing school policy. A big surprise to some.
I manage angry students by separating them from the rest of the class, I will not allow them to vent while class is in session. I will ask the student to meet with me after class so we may discuss any concerns they may have.
Hi Sabrina,
Whenver you listen it really makes the student feel like what they have to say matters. Listening is very psychological when it comes to angry students.
Patricia
Hi Doris,
Listening is key! We need to do all we can to help problem solve, but if the situation is beyond your scope get an expert involved.
Patricia
Listen.
Ask the student how he would resolve the situation.
Present your view of the situation in a rational manner.
Be aware of the student's state of mind and do not let the conversation escalate or become confrontational.
I think that is a great strategy. Most of time if someone will just stop long enought to listen it validates a concern. When a student feels validated in their complaints (whether it's your issue or not) they will talk themselves into a solution. You are guiding them without counseling them.
I will approach the student in a calm professional manner and discuss the need for us to meet on 1:1 basis to find out why she/he is angry. I have found out many times that students are angry at something else rather than what's going on at school/in the class-room. This does sound like a Displaced Anger. So, I will help the student to clarify the reasons for his/her anger.
In my 1:1 discussion with the student, I will also advise student of Proper ways of expressing anger (Assertive ways of expressing anger).
Hi Sandra,
Don't let it go. The student had no right to ask to be left alone. What if every student asked to be left alone? You would not have anyone to teach. Students don't ask us to do things we ask/direct them to do things.
Patricia
Hi Kathleen,
I handle the angry student as you have shared. Removal is an option, but it is always my last resort.
Patricia
As pointed out in the lesson listening is the key, taking notes, summarizing the student complaint and then asking the student what would solve the problem from their point of view. I then give my assessment of the situation and supply information the student may not know. We then come to an agreement with follow up. Removal from the classroom is an option
I had only one encounter with a student who came to class and got angry about a suggested assignment to better their skill. The student got frustrated and asked to be left alone. I asked the student if they wanted to talk about it and the student did not respond. I let it go and moved on.
I would definitely have the student "write it down" if a situation comes up.
The first thing to do is take a few deep breaths!
I'd take the student to a private place away from the rest of the group and ask him / her to tell me what's going on. I'd try not to interrupt them as they are speaking. I'd also try to remain calm and assured. I'd get permission from the student to take notes.
Depending on what was said, I'd ask if there is anything I can do to make the situation easier, suggest they talk to one of the school's counsellors, etc.
Separation from group in key to this type of behavior, also key is to have a good ear for the student. make sure they get the point across and that you write all the incident on administration view.
Hi Sandy,
No one knows it all, it is big of you to admit you don't know, but you will get someone who does know. The key is to get the student's question answered.
Patricia
lISTEN TO WHAT THE INDIVIDUAL HAS TO SAY,THEN TOGETHER STRATEGIGE A PLAN HOW TO ATTACK THIS PROBLEM BEING FOCUSSED ON.
Boy do I have experience in that department!
I listen, then try to answer any questions that I can. Then I ask if I can get______ to answer the other s questions that I can't answer. I don't mind saying I don't know how to answer that, but I can get ____ and we can ask her.
I definitely agree with the suggestion to listen to the student. After they have expressed their feelings, I carefully analyze their comments to assess what is valid and what is not, in other words, what is blame shifting. I challenge the student in a non-threatening manner to take responsibility and make an attempt to change the situation that is causing the anger in their lives. If it is something concernng their educational experience, I carefully try to assist them with their concern. If I can't directly assist them, I direct them to the proper source where they can get a resolution, carefully describing the proper channel and chain of command.
When confronted with an angry student, one must allow the student to vent their concerns by listening. Allowing the student this opportunity displays that the instructor does care. Once the student has vented, the escalation of anger may decrease which may now provide an opportunity to discuss things in a more rational state.
