James Jackson

Susan, one technique I have used when working with diverse and small groups is to setup a grading rubric that focuses on what is required to achieve different levels of grades. For those students looking to just achieve the minimum you have the standard learning outcomes required by the course. For those that want to earn a higher grade, their efforts will need to be greater than others in the class so you may have different assignments that can be completed once the minimal requirements are achieved. A student that is interested in earning the highest score in the class… >>>

Megan, there are many ways to protect against cheating. If students feel they can cheat they will. The trick is to setup your class environment where cheating is not possible or carries such heavy consequences that students are afraid to even attempt. One advantage of the smaller groups is you can create more unique assessment tools. Assessments can even be unique to each student depending on your situation so cheating is just not an option or at least you will notice it immediately as you are grading each individual work. I highly recommend working with your curriculum group to investigate… >>>

Christopher, I agree with everything you are saying. I will add that there is value in teaching some of the traits of professionalism. You know your students better that I do but my experience has been that many really have never been told what professionalism really means. If you have a group of students that all come from affluent backgrounds and have been raised with high levels of professionalism then you may not need to have such discussions. If your students are more under-resourced or lack some basic literacy skills then discussions in professional behavior can be very beneficial. Regards,… >>>

Angelina, leading by example is key. Students will learn more from those they respect. No one knows everything but if your students know what you know their opportunities to get good grades and eventually get a job will be greater. This is what I always tell my students. I do not know everything about anything but I have the skills I need to figure out anything needed to be successful. I am willing to teach them how to be resourceful and to figure things out if they pay attention in class. This is the best gift anyone can provide to… >>>

Kathy, you have a real issue here in that what has been going on for so long only gets harder to control. Have you tried to speak with the student directly to find out why they are so against you? I would schedule a meeting between you, your supervisor and the student and ask some very direct questions. Do not go on the defensive or take the approach of a counter attack. Just focus on wanting to be a better instructor and one phase of this is to build positive relationships with students that seem to challenge you in a… >>>

Jodie, I totally agree that it is not a good practice to shut and lock doors. I also feel it is disrespectful to other students for you to stop class to greet each students that comes in late. My focus would be to establish a policy that you will begin classes on time and for those that come in late, it is their responsibility to meet with fellow students after class or outside the class period to catch up on any necessary notes. This is also where a blended approach could really be of value. You could release your notes… >>>