Meredith corrects other students’ comments in class and Sondra does not participate in group activities, while Deshawn attempts to co-facilitate and Ivan is very defensive and offends others. It is the instructor’s responsibility to resolve these behavioral issues. These behaviors not only affect the student involved in these behaviors but they also impact the other students and the atmosphere of the class. What strategies might you use to correct these behavioral issues?
For this Discussion, review and study this week’s Learning Resources. Then consider any behavioral issues that have occurred in classes that you have taken either in-person or online (see the Learning Resources for possible issues). Select one of those behavioral issues and think about the dynamics involved. Finally, reflect on how the instructor handled it, and consider at least two other strategies that you could use to deal with the issue if it occurred in a class that you were teaching.
Post by Day 3 a brief explanation of the behavioral issue you selected. Describe how the instructor resolved the issue, and explain why you feel the instructor’s approach was or was not effective. Finally, explain at least two other strategies that you could use to deal with the issue if it occurred in a class that you were teaching.
Behavioral Issue: Sondra's Lack of Participation in Group Activities
In the class I took, there was a student named Sondra who consistently displayed a lack of participation in group activities. Sondra would often remain silent during discussions, contribute minimally to group projects, and seemed disengaged from the class as a whole.
The instructor attempted to resolve this issue by encouraging Sondra to participate through various strategies. The instructor would frequently call on Sondra directly during discussions, asking for her thoughts or opinions. Additionally, the instructor provided opportunities for individual reflection and encouraged Sondra to share her ideas in writing or through one-on-one discussions. However, despite these efforts, Sondra's participation remained minimal.
In my opinion, while the instructor's approach was well-intentioned, it was not entirely effective in addressing Sondra's lack of participation. Simply calling on her or providing alternative methods of expression did not address the underlying reasons for her disengagement. It is important to consider that there might be personal or psychological factors influencing Sondra's behavior that need to be addressed sensitively.
Two alternative strategies that could be used to deal with this issue are:
Understanding and Supportive Approach:
Rather than solely focusing on increasing Sondra's participation, an instructor could take a more empathetic approach. This involves having a private conversation with Sondra to understand any potential barriers or challenges she may be facing. By showing genuine concern and offering support, the instructor can create a safe space for Sondra to share her concerns and explore ways to actively engage in class activities.
Collaborative Learning Opportunities:
Creating collaborative learning opportunities can help address Sondra's lack of participation. Assigning group projects or activities that require active involvement from all members can encourage Sondra to contribute. The instructor can also facilitate group discussions, ensuring that every student has an opportunity to share their thoughts. By fostering a supportive and inclusive classroom environment, Sondra may feel more comfortable and motivated to participate.
In conclusion,
resolving behavioral issues such as Sondra's lack of participation requires a multifaceted approach that goes beyond simply encouraging involvement. By understanding the underlying reasons for the behavior and creating supportive and collaborative learning environments, instructors can effectively address these issues and promote active engagement among all students in the class.