Re: Advice for Tina and other rookies...

["Michael N. Monce" <mnmon@CONNCOLL.EDU>]

On Wed, 1 May 2002, Michael Edmiston wrote:

> REPEAT THE LAST TWO SENTENCES ---> You are there to help them learn the
> material and succeed with their goals.  If they cannot see you in that
> light, then you're in for a long haul.
>
> This doesn't mean you give them grades they don't deserve.  This doesn't
> mean you water down the material.  You must cover the material and you must
> hold students to a standard.  Some students will fail.  But while all this
> is transpiring students must trust that you are not an adversary; they must
> view you as an advocate.

        Very good reply, but this statement is in conflict somewhat with
the article referenced on the list a few days ago. The article by Valen
Johnson of Duke shows a detailed analysis of a large statistical sample of
students. Basically, you give low grades, the students then lower their
course evaluations accordingly. A true no-win situation.  I found the
article fascinating and await his book. (April 14, New York Times
Education Life Supplement, page 14)

                        Mike Monce
                        Connecticut College