Ryan Reichert

This last question is something we as instructors must live by. Because if we do not, we will never try new methods within our classroom. Sure, new methods will stress us out, but how do you think our students feel? Most will commend you for trying something different. They like change just as much as you do!

I could not count the number of times students of mine have brought personal problems to my attention. It almost seemed like it occurred on a daily basis. What I did to conteract this was to listen, not give my opinion on the issue, and squash it as quickly as possible. As much as I wanted to relate to them or give personal experiences, I could not; especially if it involved outside-the-classroom experiences. The reason why I avoid these issues is the notion of professionalism. Am I there to be their counselor or am I there to be their instructor?… >>>

During this past semester, I had a student who always wanted to "push my buttons." I do not know if it was because he didn't like me or because of his personality. Either way, I addressed the issue. I took the student aside during class and talked to him about his actions. We discussed a few things, and mainly, his actions were due to his grade. He was not doing well in this class, and in my opinion, he wanted to voice this through his comments in class. After discussing things he could do better, the student became less of… >>>

During this past semester, one thing I've observed, during "down time," is students' use of facebook. Now, when I say down time, I mean time which is used to work on projects or group assignments. Students who went on facebook were students who finished early! Well, my question is why did they finish early? How well is their work completed? If I've learned one thing during this past semester, NO MORE FACEBOOK! Also, no more use of computers in class, unless the use is for school work. I could not tell you how many times students, who used facebook alot,… >>>

As a new instructor, having this element within your syllabus is key. I say this for a few reason. As a new instructor, if I did not provide this element early, students would walk all over me and use this to their advantage. For example, if they submit something late, they could come back to me and say, "it is was never outlined in the syllabus." I will have little room to talk and my report with students will be tarnished. This will reflect on my abilities as a teacher for semesters to come. And second, if this is noticed… >>>