Patricia Scales

Hi Sabrina, My institution has adopted a policy about missing the first day of class. The policy is as such, if a student misses the first day, the student MUST take the final exam. At my institution, students can be exempt from the final exam if they have an "A" average and perfect attendance. Students really work hard to get to class on the first day and maintain an "A" average throughout the grading period. Patricia

Hi Gary, I know this can be tough when needing to present lecture material other than allowing students to be in the kitchen. Students always want to jump right in without getting the theoretical aspect first. As educators, we must convince the students the importance of theory. Patricia

Hi Brian, This shows that you really want your students to succeed. Keep up the good work! Patricia

Hi Doreen, Great ways to avoid common instructor mistakes. I've used these tactics as well, and they really do work and make a major difference. Patricia

Hi David, I am a firm believer that a student does not care how much you know, until they know how much you care. As instructors, we must be caring beings. Patricia

Hello Doreen, It is amazing how much can be accomplished pertaining to complaints/concerns by having one-on-one sessions. Students seem to be more receptive and respectful when you have private meetings. A lot is resolved from these meetings. I never discuss concerns/complaints with more than one student at a time, simply because students know how to jump on the band wagon whenver negativity is involved. You will have better control and result when dealing with students one on one. Patricia

Hello Brian, I understand. I have students with different cultural backgrounds and dialects as well. You just have to do the best you can to communicate effectively. I deal with this type student one-on-one to make sure they understand different concepts, assignments, projects, etc. Patricia

Hi Doreen, Some students are just naturally afraid. After the student has performed a particular task, the student quickly discovers it really was not that bad. They gain the confidence they need after the performance. Patricia

Hi David, Nicely said! I went back to my student days the moment I was reading your response. As instructors, we must learn how to be empathetic and sympathetic. Patricia

Hi Gary, You've listed some great ways to avoid instructors' mistakes. Do you actually do these things? Patricia