This site is a class blog space for new Career and Technical Specializations and Heathcare Science teachers enrolled in the New Teacher Institute (NTI) at Georgia State University in Atlanta, Georgia.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Frustration
It used to frustrate me so much to see my students fail a test. While it still upsets me, I have learned not to let it get to me. When you back up and look at the "big picture", most of them are the kids that don't care about school. They are the ones that sleep in class, do not do their homework, "goof off" during group projects, etc. I also realized that the ones that are failing my class are usually failing all of their classes. Normally my class is one of their higher grades. Just another bit of evidence that career tech is a dumping grounds for kids that don't want to be in school.
Perry, the fact of the matter is that this is somewhat true. The only thing I have found that works for this is to give these particular kids something to come to class for. I know I have had kids that I just really didnt like and it usually was due to this type of behavior. Wake thier asses up, put them front and center, and keep them so busy with something, anything, so they dont have time to sleep and goof off. Usually after a week or two of this they will take notice of whats going on and usually stay awake and intune. Heck, you might even find that they become your favorite student. I know it doesnt seem fair to the other students to do this, but in some instances you have to do what you have to do.
ReplyDeleteI am not sure anyone really wants to be in school. Students want the benefits from the education. Money, power, self estem, etc. Some students have a hard time seeing the benefits of an education. I believe what we must give the students is the motivation to rise to their potential. I think it would be easier to teach to a stepford student that could absorb everything you give them. It just wouldn't be as fulfilling and a lot more work trying to keep up with their super fine mind.
ReplyDeleteI am in a "save the world mood tonight."
Take Care,
garyb
Perry, I totally agree with you on our class being te dumping ground for kids who could care less about school and well-care less about anything right now! It is a challenge to try and motivate them into anything. However the oddest thing I've discoved is that some of my students that seem to careless really do care- when I assign them projects or give them responsibilities, they almost seem to be surprised? I have found that most students are worth the trouble or should I say "challenge". Although I know that we can't win them all -we can make a small difference. Hope this gives you some encouragement? We all NEED IT!! Riley
ReplyDeleteI agree with all of your comments. It's true that T&I classes ARE often a dumping ground for the students everyone else has given up on. I also agree that most of these kids are redeemable and worth the challenge. It's finding the right "hook" to win them over that can prove so incredibly challenging. However, when you are able to light any of these kids up, it is the most rewarding teaching experiences you will ever have.
ReplyDeleteBrother I feel your pain!
ReplyDeleteI have tried to put these kids in groups with people I knew could bring them around and that didn't work. I have two student that are the I don't care kids. It takes approx 90 min to do my test an its open book. These young men will be finish in about 10min and then they wants to get on the computer.I tell them in a nice way way "No" Jesse H. said that you have got to find a hook. I have tried everything. These kids I know these kids will never be in law enforcement. I think we are setting them of for failure.
Brother I feel your pain!
ReplyDeleteI have tried to put these kids in groups with people I knew could bring them around and that didn't work. I have two student that are the I don't care kids. It takes approx 90 min to do my test an its open book. These young men will be finish in about 10min and then they wants to get on the computer.I tell them in a nice way way "No" Jesse H. said that you have got to find a hook. I have tried everything. These kids I know these kids will never be in law enforcement. I think we are setting them of for failure.