Older students not respecting the younger instructor
I've had students that were much older than me and unfortunately, I felt they were not too respectful because they felt like I was much younger than they were. Some of those older students would even go as far as telling me how to control my class when my class was doing just fine. They felt like I needed help when I clearly didn't. How should I approach those students?
Karla
I don't think that is an uncommon situation. I have had students try to take over my class both in the traditional classroom and in the online classroom. And, in the online classroom, it can't be age that causes this situation. I had one student in a traditional classroom who was constantly rude and frequently contradicted me in front of other students. Finally, I had to speak up. I just told her that I did not treat her with that kind of disrespect and I would not tolerate it from her either. I think you need to remind these students that this is your classroom, and though you would be happy to listen to any ideas that they have, that you make the final decisions. Also, maybe you could hand out a course survey with specific questions that would allow these students to express themselves--without having to do it in front of the class. They could also note on the form whether they would like to meet with you--or you could follow up with them based on the comments. I hope this is helpful. I know it is very challenging to be in this situation--and it doesn't make you excited to get up in front of that class. You keep hoping that student will be absent (of course, these are the students who never miss a class).
Linda
Hi Karla,
I have used two approaches when this has happened to me. One, is to thank them for their concern and let them know I have an order to the way I do things and the class is right on target in relation to my plans. I also shared that I had had extensive experience in the field even though I was new to teaching. This helped as well.
The other approach I used was that I put the students into teams and had them work on projects. By mixing the older and younger students the older students got to share some of their life experiences with the younger ones as they were working on their group projects. They really liked the idea of sharing their experience with someone since they in reality lacked confidence that they could be successful in coming back to school.
Gary
As a 25-year-old instructor, I deal with this issue all the time, and I have spoken with some students at length about it. Whether or not I feel that I am handling things well, it means something to me that a student brought the issue up: I listen carefully to their complaints or suggestions and try to ascertain what the real issue is. Sometimes they have a specific concern, such as students texting in class (which I may not have noticed). Other times they have a generalized concern: for example, that the faculty members are too lax about the uniform policy. My approach varies with the situation, but in general I agree that students respect a professor who clearly demonstrates their knowledge and qualifications. My students want rules to be logical and their purpose clear; they then want those rules enforced across the board. Even when those things are happening, though, students may not be aware of it, so open communication (out of class) is key.
I've had good luck telling students that I do have a policy for dealing with inappropriate classroom behavior, and that I do speak with the students one-on-one (which the complaining student may not have been aware of) to deal with problems. If the complaining student voices concerete concerns, and I suspect others are having the same thoughts, I may even mention the issue at the start of the next class to get the entire class's thoughts. That can get out of control if it's not approached in an orderly way, but I've had good luck getting all thoughts out into the open so we, as a class, can decide how to move forward.
I have also faced that situation. I try to be respectful of the student opinions and provide opportunities for those students to share their life experiences. I try to also show that I don't know everything but that you are a facilitator in everyone's learning.
Hi Gary-
Those are great suggestions. I think team interaction can be very valuable. Would you suggest the same approaches for the online environment?
Thanks.
Melissa
Yes. You can get to know your student after one project to know if this is working or if you need to make new groupings.
Gary
Bryan -
I agree that student complaints or suggestions usually stem from a legitimate concern about the way classroom rules are being adhered to. While a lot of my younger students (18-20's) that are following the rules get upset when others dont, its the older students who will question my classroom management, often because they want to help make sure everyone is treated fairly, including them. I acknowledge them for their success, and thank them for pointing out/helping me see areas for improvement.
I am a younger instructor as well, and I try not to let the age difference between my students and I get in the way of what I need to teach them. I am well trained and capable of teaching the class. I do understand how it may be difficult to teach those who may be older than you but because I think sometimes they think that they may know more about the lesson than I do.
Hi Deena,
The key is to have confidence in your abilities and knowledge of the field. You have been successful in your area and are willing to share that knowledge with your students. They need to know that you have valuable information that is going to help them achieve their career goals. This will greatly reduce the age situation.
Gary
I have been a younger instructor, i started teaching at the high school level at the age of 20, although the students were younger than me our ages were very close, confidence is the key if you show that you know what you are teaching and are confident in your knowledge the students usually fall into place
