First, I take them aside so we have privacy in our discussion. Then I make sure I speak in calm, even tones. I ask them to explain what is making them angry, and I employ active listening techniques - that is, I re-phrase and repeat back to them what they have told me. This immediately puts them at ease, as they feel they have been heard. Then I ask what they would like as a resolution of the problem, and we work it out together. Sometimes it is a compromise, sometimes they propose a good resolution, and sometimes I have to dictate the answer.
I find myself doing the following after over 24 years of teaching. Listen to the matter, ask the student to document with me and resolve the matter as soon as possible.
Hi Ana,
I would have immediately told the angry student to voice his opinion and do not shoot down the opinions of others. During break or at the end of class, whichever happend first, I would have had a private conversation with the angry student about being out of line.
Patricia
Hi Mark,
How do you manage angry students?
Patricia
Listening is really the best tool. It helps the student realize that his/her concerns are valid and being heard. Sometimes thats all it really takes. We all want to be heard.
Its hard to comment on the relevancy of comments made, seeing as I was not involved in the discussion. However, a spirited debate about relevant subject matter is always welcome in my class. If someone crosses the line between discussion and being combative, I would pull that person aside and explain the proper way to get your opinion across to people without attacking them.
Last night one of my students was impossible! We were talking about job interviews and I showed them a 2 minute video. In it, the person interviewed was from another culture (Chinese). She showed great respect but didn't get the job. My students engaged in a good discussion about culture, ESL, etc. All was fine till my angry student sharply snapped at the others saying their comments had nothing to do with the topic. On the other hand,I have to say that completing the ED 104 course (MaxKnowledge)was very helpful, after class I read to this student notes I took from the course. Now, if you were in a situation like this one, what would you have done? I'll gladly take your advise...
Hi Mark,
Most of the time the angry student simply wants to vent. We must listen attentively without any interruptions, as mentioned, this normally calms the waters.
Patricia
Listen. If emotions are high, have the student put their thoughts on paper. This can have a calming or settling result.
When confronted with an angry student just listen and let them vent...
Hi Anthony,
Calmness is key! Most of the time all the student has to do is vent. Students want to be listened to.
Patricia
I always try to get the student to calm down; I let them know that I will be much more eager to listen to them and if possible help them as soon as the flames stop shooting out of their mouths.
I agree that you must first get this student alone and then you need to find the root cause of the situation and find the solution to the issue,be it a school or personal issue. If you can't resolve the situation then get that student to the person that can help resolve it
Patricia,
First...you must listen carefully. Many times the student will feel better after venting about the exam, the material, or the condition that has raised his ire. Once he has settled a bit, reinforce the notion that you hear him and will address. Try to adopt a reflective form of critical thinking here by resisting a rash/impromptu decision. After reflecting on all of the facts, inform the student of your decision in a factual and nonconfrontational manner.
Greg
Hi Kevin,
Angry students should always be handled behind closed doors. Typically, once you let the angry student fully vent, the student will calm down and becomes more rational to deal with.
Patricia
I talked to her in my office, listened to her and gave her the option to drop the class if she was not happy there. She was very disrupting and negative.
By taking a student to a neutral area to discuss the matter is effective. Typically a walk down the hall to another office will provide ample time for the student calm down.
I agree. 99% of the time there is another issue (usually outside of school) at play. By taking the time to listen and offer solutions the student will feel more in control of the original complaint.
Hi Patricia,
I think it's important to pull the student aside, and talk to the individual alone. I find that 90% of the time the student is going through personal issues. Listening is very important, and then simply talking through their anger and what is bothering them. I always say that it is important to keep a level of professionalism within the classroom environment.
Pulling in another instructor is a very good idea. I do not like to be alone with an angry student because I might get into a hs/she said type of situation.
