Us vs Them
I have found that many new instructors when making tests & quizzes get into an us vs. them mentality. They use a test as a way to compete with the student rather than to assess their ability to convey the information and the ability of the sytudent to apply it.
You are correct Steve, what I tell a new instructor from day one is that a test given in class is actualy a great eval of how they did.
John and Steve,
That is a problem. Some feel like they need to weed out the weak. It is a constant effort with some to remind them they are here to help the learner, well "Learn."
I agree that many instructors fall into this us vs. them mentality. We must not forget that we are not competing with the students. We are simply giving information out and having the student apply it when necessary or able. Its real easty we are educating the students to the best of are ability.
Create quizzes and tests to measure the students understanding of the lesson's concepts and principles. The us vs. them mentality creates a hostile learning environment which the instructor created.
thanks steve, you make a good observation and I will make a Conscientious effort to not do this in my courses!
I find myself working as an instructor in a technical school where my tests are standardized combination tests that a board approves each question. The course material is also provided and my job is to deliver the material in multiple learning styles to connect to each and every student. If a student doesn't get it, I have to ask myself, "Have I let him down, or has he let himself down?". Either way, if an educator is truely working with the students, where does the Us vs Them mentality come from?
" Either way, if an educator is truely working with the students, where does the Us vs Them mentality come from?"
I think, as Steve pointed out, it happens with some newer teachers. When I started 13 years ago I was too scared to want to go to battle against them, I wanted them comfortable around me. The scared part left me long ago, but the comfort level has always increased. I'm friendly (not friends-got to keep them separated) and give them respect, but only if they treat me the same. Kill 'em with kindness.
Now the U vs T attitude from a students perspective is something we deal with a bit. Sometimes the students in this society (you know, KIDS THESE DAYS!) automatically assume it's a battle from day 1. I work to snuff that out quickly.
I have personally witnessed instructors that feel they have to defend the questions and take it personally if the questions are debated. This is where some of the us vs. them comes from. This is a sign of missing the point on the instructors behalf.
I review my quizzes with the students and specifically ask them if the questions were fair and if there were any questions that were not covered in class.
If there are trends in the questions missed, I then go over the information again.
keep in mind a test is only a tool to see how well the student is grasping what you are trying to convey
I completely agree, tests are also to be used to see the level of learning of the class itself.It is also a great indicator of how well we are doing as educators
Quite true Ricardo! We should always look at trends in testing - Are many in the class getting the same questions wrong? In that case is it a problem with the questions or with our instruction?
I've not made a test since I started, we use the phase tests. As an instructor I don't compete with my students, I guide them. 28 years in the field vs. these rookies? It's my goal to help them succeed, and I'll do whatever it takes to reach that goal!
Hi Doug - Welcome to ED 103! I like your attitude - best wishes for many more successful years! Susan
I do not like the "Us vs. Them" outlook but understand how it can happen sometimes between teachers and students. I try hard to avoid any type of competitive behavior/feelings with my students as I do not find it to promote a healthy learning atmosphere for the students.
Yes, that is a problem. Specifically if the student and instructor has a conflict. But to try and rule that out, the instructor and student should try a start fresh everyday and learn from each others mistakes. Try and mend the problem instead of compiling even more. If it gets out of hand, by the end of the phase, the instructor will most of the time come out being the bad guy becuase of the students evaluations. Especially if he doesn't document everything as it happens.
