As students go from class to class something very drastic changes: teaching style. Of course, this isn't necessarily a bad thing. If every teacher taught the same way, things would likely be very dull. However, this also means that students have to adapt to the style of each class. A class can be discussion-based, lecture-based, group-based, filled with memorization, etc. The possibilities and room for subtleties from teacher to teacher are virtually endless.
But the question here is not about your ability to adapt to a specific style, so much as "what style suits you best." For me, the more individuality and independence is required for the work, the easier it is on me; I was homeschooled all my life and I'm shy and introverted to say the least. Needless to say, I don't function well in classes that are based mainly on discussion or group work.
So the point is essentially this (and it can apply to anyone learning): What are your basic strengths? Your weaknesses? What method works best for you? It may seem basic, but assessing these things can help you to understand what you need to do to get the grades you want - or simply to learn what you want. If you're struggling in one area, it may help you understand why and if you're doing well in another, it may give you the knowledge necessary to make sure you continue to do so.
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6 comments:
Hey Rob,
I completely agree with your assessment. It seems like to get an "A" in a class, you have to cater to the teacher's personality rather than a set curriculum standard.
Do you think the mirror can also be put on the instructors?
There should be an allowance from the instructor for the different learning styles of students. Feeling comfortable enough to speak out in front of 20+ other students isn't the only way to indicate your interest in the subject or that you've done your homework.
I like your point -- your academic success is affected by the style of classes. I also think that, as the professional in the room, instructors can strive to bring out the best in all types of students and learning styles.
Great post, Rob! It must have been tough to transition from home schooling to a public university. Good for you for having such a great perspective.
sarahb: It sure seems that way. I've noticed that at times I'd rather risk a slightly lower grade and just try to learn what I want to, than stress over trying to, as you put it, cater to the teacher's personality.
The Stace: Definitely. I agree that the burden should, in part, be on the instructors. I would hope, considering how small the classes are at UB, that some instructors already try to do as you said. I must admit that it can't be easy to find a good way to teach the subject, in addition to bringing out the best in each student, but it is the instructor's job after all.
giordana: Thanks. Surprisingly enough, it wasn't as tough as you might think. I expected it to be difficult, but I adapted pretty well and I think my expectations helped me to avoid being taken by surprise.
This makes me think about larger universities where it's not unusual to have 200-300 people in one class. My son's girlfriend in a freshman at College Park and there were over 200 people in her math class! Needless to say, she found it very difficult even though she's always been an idependent student. In these classes, the instuctor doesn't have the luxury of tayloring the structure to her class. This is one of the advantages of going to UB: small class sizes. I would never have survived in a class of 200 where there is little student/teacher interaction.
Speaking as a trained professional educator, I have to agree with you, Rob (and comment folk!). If a professor (or, really, a teacher at any level) doesn't make the effort to take his or her students' needs/styles/interests/preferences/etc into account, less learning will happen. Yes, students have to learn to adapt -- but what they (we) are adapting TO should be clear and feasible. Not just random instructor preferences.
It's not possible for an instructor to meet every need of every student -- but it's crucial to make the effort, and to create an environment in which success is not just a matter of whim. I am pleased to be able to report that so far, my grad life at UB has reflected that kind of environment.
CarolB, that College Park class sounds AWFUL. I would not do very well in something like that either. Feh.
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