Mistakes
What is the best thing to do when you are not sure of an answer? I get anxiety when this happens and I need some advise on handling the situation.
Tiffany
Hi, Maria! I agree with what you wrote, and I would add another thought.
After admitting that I cannot answer a question, if an answer needs to be obtained immediately (sometimes it can’t wait until the next class), I’ll ask the students themselves if they know the correct response or if their work experience can contribute anything to resolve the problem. For example, while I know nothing about US military procedures, a military student who has gone through training could answer such a question to the satisfaction of the class so that all of us can understand why a writer makes a big deal about courtesy in military functions.
Hope this helps!
Based on experience, by acknowledging my mistakes and/or my inability to answer certain questions, I gain my students' respect.
I want them to feel that they can trust me. If I am uncertain about something, I will let them know, look it up, and get back to them. This is where I put my sense of humor to work. I tell them, "Is this payback? I give you homework, you give me homework too?" Then I make sure that I get back to them with the answer.
I am never afraid to say, "I am not sure about that, but I will research on it" just to appear smart because eventually they will find out the truth and that's when they lose respect and trust in the instructor.
