Public
Activity Feed Discussions Blogs Bookmarks Files

ED113 Managing the Adult Classroom

It was mentioned during the course that when students say, "I can't believe it's time already; I had fun learning in this class," the instructor is effective.  I get that a lot, and I am elated that my teaching style is effective.  HOWEVER, I also get negative feedbacks from students who were previosuly under a Buddy instructor. Being a 50/50 Guide-Controller instructor, I am often regarded as 100% Controller by students who are used to the Buddy and/or Apathete type.  I was even called "evil" by a disruptive and immature student for not allowing him to do as he pleased in class.  I had several one-on-one talks with this student to discuss his behavior and class performance, which has always been very poor. I repeatedly told him that I am concerned about him being left behind because he's always playing in class. He is now scheduled to meet with the dean.

By the way, this student does not have a problem with his other instructors whom I would describe as a Buddy and an Apathete.

I completely agree in that students think that our sessions are much too short and they are quite correct. We have 5.5 week sessions and these are too short. It would be much better if we were able to have 8-11 weeks. This way we would get to know our students so much better and they would have more time to develop their knowledge of this course.

Adults come from many different backgrounds.  The more the teacher learns those backgrounds, the more successful the teacher will be with bonding and reaching the students.  Only then can learning take place.  Learning is a two-way street.

Is the student learning with the "buddy and apathete" as you describe? It may just be the way the student learns best...not that I agree with him not adapting to other styles of learning. If however the student is not learning or performing well all around then the other instructors should be spoken to so that maybe all of you can come up with a solution. 

Sign In to comment