I just want to pass your gen ed class...
The institution that I instruct for is wonderful and there are very few things that I would change. However, it seems like every session I have at least one (or sometimes a small angry mob) of students who see Psychology as a major barrier on their way to the completion of their certification/diploma program. These often vocal students like to communicate their disdain immediately--in any public venue--seemingly with the hope that I will be able to wave my magic wand and release them of their requirement.
I do understand their concern and can appreciate that to a student who is working on a dental hygiene certification--Psychology might seem to be a waste of time. However, as we all know, they keys to a well-rounded education lie in exposure to those topics outside of our specific career path.
To deal with this issue, I do everything in my power (literally from day one) to infuse humor and understanding into my repertoire in the hopes of helping them to understand why human behavior is so important. But I have often felt as though the campuses that we serve could do more at a programmatic level to help students understand (and field questions/concerns) prior to their enrollment. I have brought this up many times over the course of years and the response is always an enthusiastic "sure--we'll help!" then no action...
Has anyone out there been able to bridge this gap or worked successfully with their corresponding campus administration to help? Or perhaps any additional suggestions? Thanks so much!
Angela,
The big part is that they are foundational for success in other classes. You use Math everyday. English is vital for good communication in all fields...we probably need more exposure to it.
Herbert Brown III
As a program director it has been an ongoing issue with my students to convince them that the gen ed courses are there for a reason. There is no such thing as pointless learning. I have recently had to take such courses myself and feel sympathy for the Math, English and Psych. teachers who deal with that mentality. If you wake up each day you need all those skills to be successful, hopefully they can find something to justify thier work in those classes.
Susan,
I teach a required course as well so I can really relate to your comments. I take it as a challenge, just as I can see that you do, to get the students engaged and "actually" learn some things they can use in their lives.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Tamara, I too teach a general ed course that many do NOT want to take. And yes, they vocalize how they do not want to be there. I teach a variety of math courses and it does not matter which course it is, many students just do not want to take a math course. They come in with fear and a 'phobia' of numbers. What has helped is that I let them know that I am excited and happy to teach our math course and and tell them that they will "just love the next chapter as it will relate to- business/ or health field/ or criminal justice" etc.
You know how they say, one has to be more animated to capture another's attention? well I occasionally announce that I will have a Math Party- to solve math problems....they chuckle and at least break down the fear of trying and come to my "math party".
Tamara,
I hope others in this Forum discussion will be able to contribute to this ongoing issue. I teach a gen ed course that is required for certification so I can really relate to the challenges you face. I do similar things as you in an attempt to reach the students and with some I am very successful and for others my course is a barrier to be suffered through.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
