I have found that having very clear policies, assignments with the points for each project, paper, exam, etc. on a handout really helps to reduce their stress over what is expected in class. Sometimes the students feel overwhelmed because they are in an accelerated program at our college and then they complain more about everything! I have also found teaching evening courses that my students are simply tired from working all day and sometimes just need to vent about that...I have trained myself to be a better listener...Just listening to them sometimes is all they really want.
Hi Jeanne,
Students appreciate knowing up front what is required and expected of them. Rules, policies, procedures, etc. should be made known on Day 1.
Patricia
Hi Adrienne,
Thoroughness can eliminate a lot of confusion and misunderstanding.
Patricia
Hi Jose,
Preparation is key. You MUST be prepared before class starts.
Patricia
Patricia,
Try to be prepared before class starts and clearly state the course objectives, rules and everything you expect from your students in order to be successful in your class.
Hello Instructor Scales,
Instructors can minimize student complaints and challenges by providing a good syllabus and a clear, thorough student expectations document for students.
Kasey,
Clarifying any questions or concerns at the start of a course is important. This helps students to know what the expectations are right up front before the course begins. It alleviates some of the stress and complaints that students often go through.
Wendy,
I like your strategy to give positive feedback and listen to students even when they do well. Students also need reminders for assignments and required class meetings. This helps them to manage their time better and to back away from some of the stress.
Be clear from day 1 what your expectations are and what the course requirements are. Listen to your students, and respond fairly. Empathize with your students, letting them know that you have faced similar challenges. Finally, stand your ground. Do not allow students to manipulate you, and you will gain their respect. -Jeanne
Hi
I think this module discussed many ways that instructors can assist in reducing student complaints and challenges. At our school we really encourage faculty to become knowledgeable about school resources and services that may also help students in resolving their complaints. Not only should they be good listeners, but they may not also be equipped to address the students issues so they should direct them to someone that can help the student. This demonstrates that the school cares and wants to make it a positive experience for them. Lastly, I believe a well thought-out syllabus can eliminate and potential challenges that stem from a student's perception on grades or other course concerns. We work with faculty to create rubrics that minimize any subjectivity that could be used in the evaluation process.
On the first day of class I lay down my expecttations and guide lines. I cover the grading, number of tests, when labs are due and what happens if assignments are late. This seems to lower the amount of complaints and challenges, at least for me
I agree. Making sure your students know you are available for each one of them makes you more approachable. This allows them to voice any complaints or concerns and makes them feel their opinion matters. When they feel they matter they are going to be more successful.
Have a VERY good syllabus, and course expectations on the first day of the class. Listen to students, give timely and substantive feedback, and clearly state the objective and course expectations, without deviation. Treat all students with respect, integrity and maintain ethical teaching standards.
When students have complaints, the first thing an instructor should do it listen to their concerns. A lot of times the underlying complaint has nothing to do with the class. I think a lot of complaints and confusion can be reduced by spelling out in the syllabus all expectations and rules. This is especially true of late assignments and missed quizes or exams. If the student knows up front what the policy is, it helps minimizes any complaints or confusion. By reviewing the syllabus with the class the first day of class, it makes everyone aware upfront of the requirements.
Hi Wendy,
You really make yourself accessible and available to your students. I am sure your students appreicate this.
Patricia
Students are a great resource. Sometimes they can hurt your feelings with their honesty because they do not realize how much planning goes into teaching but they do have great ideas. They are our customers and we should treat them as such. Sometimes instructors get so caught up in trying to get all the material they can to their students it overwhelms their students. Instructors can pick up on many clues just by watching the facial expressions and body language of their students. I had an instructor one time that was just having a very difficult time getting across to her students. They felt she was mean and did not understand their lives and the rsponsibilities they had. We asked her to put the words instructor and student on the board. Students were to go to the board and write what they thought an instructor's responsibilities should be and then what the student's responsibilities should be. After this exercise everyone had a better understanding of what was expected of them. It worked very well.
Hello Rebecca,
I like when the students come to me. I appreciate the fact they can come to me without fear. I am one who can be approached at any time. Open door and the students have my cell and email as well. I walk around while they are working just in case they have a question they need to ask.
Hello Patricia,
I realize more since taken this course, I realize I should ask for more student input. Thank you for your comment.
Hi Wendy,
I like the idea of giving positive feedback when the class does well.
Patricia
Students want to know that we care about them and their success. Instructors should ask students continually if they think their objectives have been met and if not how can they be met. Sometimes it may be the student that needs to step up or maybe the instructor.
