Laurie, I totally agree with Patricia. In my experience, when I dealt with the rudeness quickly...and privately...I found an amazing turnaround in the student's behavior. Students are known for testing the teacher. Now it's up to us to pass the test!

I have dealt with many rude students in my years of teaching, and the best way to deal with them is privately. I ask them what is bothering them, and what can we do to calm the situation down. I also emphasize that rudeness creates a hostile environment, and an employer expects professional behavior, both verbally and physically.

In recent years, students have become more disrespectful to instructors and fellow classmates. How do you handle this situation?