Hi Michelle,
What great ways to let your students know that you are there for them. I really like how you get input from your students in order to make things better.
Patricia
When we deal with a class full of students, the very first step to reducing challenges and complaints is communication. We have to present clear instruction and expectations, and be understood. If our students are aware, up front, about what is expected of them and of their performance, then we diffuse future incidences of misunderstanding. As a new instructor, I know that over time I will be able to streamline this process and be very effective in my initial presentation to my students.
One classroom technique which I utilize is to encourage students to contact me if they have any concerns/questions about the class, class format or if they need any assistance in understanding the course materials. I have an open door policy and offer to structure the class to meet student learning styles whenever possible.
Periodically during the course I will ask students to give me a "pulse check" on how the course is going and we discuss as a group how other students in the course are overcoming any obstacles or approaching the learning process. Sometimes students realize through these group exchanges that others in the course are experiencing the same issue and have figured out a way to address the challenge/concern.
If a student approaches me one-on-one, I start by listening to the complaint and challenges they are having. We work together to develop a solution which works to overcome any issues.
Usually the students realize quickly that I am sincere in my desire for them to learn and am willing to work with them but I always explain that the learning process is a street with two-way traffic (i.e., they need to show initiative and apply themselves, ask questions, and let me know that they need assistance or have concerns with).
Let the students know from the beginning that you are open to communication. Let them know that you encourage the communication of their feelings and that if they have a problem to address you immediately in private. Let them know that you want them to succeed and that you will do everything you can to address their concerns in a timely manner so that you can get back to helping them along the road of success.
Hi Janet,
I agree listening is the best way to go when someone is venting or feeling an stressor. For example, in clinical when students are complaining about their clinical and theory assignments I listen, offer informational support by offering suggestions to help them meet their goals, and provide feedback this helps to aleviate some of stress students maybe feeling on a day to day basis.
I like to try to ask questions to students during the course. This allows me to find out areas where they may have problems or concerns before they get out of hand.
I concur completely on the need for putting students on full notice as to course expectations and requirements--if for no other reason than to minimize misunderstandings or sources of conflict. I also try to let my students know that I am available to discuss concerns or complaints. Listening to students is important, but it equally important to know when to be flexible and when to stand one's ground.
I agree. Having clear guidelines, and expectations on the syllabus is the best way to minimize complaints. Be firm but fair.
To reduce student complaints it is very important to make sure the students are aware of the procedure used by the college to lodge their complaints. Students need to be heard. Many times just making an appointment with the complaining student helps them to feel validated. Also having the studetn write down their concerns helps them to clarify their situation.
we often utilize student services to assist with outside issues which affect the students emotionally
I make certain that the students know -- via a written statement in the course syllabus, via my "standard salutation" in every e-mail message, and via repeated oral invitations throughout the course -- that they ought to feel free to come to me with any questions or concerns regarding the course. When those questions and concerns have arisen, I have responded promptly to the students. So far, so good!
I believe it is important to listen to the complaints and challenges as students need to know the instructor is there for them. One thing that I do is I ask my students that have complaints/challenges to have a possible solution to the complaint/challenge when we discuss their concerns.
Hi Susan,
Listening is key! Being defensive definitely will escalate the problem. Maintain a calm demeanor and try to move forward on resolving the issue.
Patricia
Organize the syllabus so that students will know what to expect. If the instructor changes the syllabus it should be clearly presented to students so there is no confusion about what is expected. A student may say that he or she is confused and attempt to blame the instructor for the confusion. The instructor must remain objective and make an honest evaluation of the complaint. If no other student is confused the instructor can move forward with the original plan and explain things in more detail to the student who doesn't understand the assignment. If the challenges are individual the instructor can tell the student that he or she will give the student personalized attention after class or at break time, rather than take class time to deal with one-to-one issues. When student complaints are valid (the instructors is wrong) use the time to involve students in a constructive plan. Say something like, "I apologize for the confusion, what do you think may be a solution for solving this problem?" This allows the student to feel they are being heard and are part of the learning process. I personally don't believe it is a problem for an instructor to show imperfection. On the other hand, I believe it is a problem for an instructor to hold the attitude that he or she can do no wrong.
Listening completely to the complaint without interrupting or being defensive. Engage the student in the solution of the complaint. Empathize but also give your opinion and the basis of your opinion. Work on an agreement, and if you can not agree at the time, arange for follow up
Hi Joy,
It sounds like you are very approachable, and you are definitely there for your students. I like to let my students know that I have an open door policy, and they are always welcome.
Patricia
Many students seem to complain when there is a break in continuity. If in a previous course they were not held accountable for much, then we should expect a whole lot of complaining when we enforce our classroom policies. I understand that each instructor has his or her own teaching style, but some sort of consistency needs to remain in place from course to course.
Open communication! That's really the key. Make yourself available to your students. Before class, after class, email, phone. Also, be sure to solicit their feedback. Make sure they know that you expect them to come to you with problems or issues. Remind them of this often so that issues don't go unresolved and become worse.
Hi Joseph,
Listening is key, and most of the time listening will let the problem resolve itself.
Patricia
I think you shoud listen to the complaint and challenges of the student and try and help them work it out,but stay in course guidelines.
