A few ramblings about approaching a teacher:
What is a professor?
They are not your friend, nor an enemy so agree to disagree because it’s your future and what you hope to become, which is a nurse and so much more 🙂 If you have any issues, your professor is your best resource and if there’s a conflict then follow the chain of command but keep it simple and civil because once again, it’s your future career.
When to go to your instructor?
If you find yourself overwhelmed or you are struggling to grasp the content, go to your professor! They are not the last resort because they will wonder, why didn’t you come to them in the first place and how can they trust you? You made them assume everything is okay but all along you were drowning and lost. Now you must work harder and feel even more overwhelmed. Go to them as soon as possible so they can steer you in the right direction as soon as possible.
How to approach a difficult teacher?
Simply stay focused. Your professor may not give the sweetest advice, but they are there to fulfill a need, which is to help. Therefore, don’t overthink or assume anything negative. Don’t assume that you will hear something positive as well because you can easily get your feelings hurt. Think about the best and worst-case scenarios beforehand but remember your goal is to simply get some help and guidance.
Email first if you still feel very uncomfortable, if no response then approaches them after class or check the syllabus during office hours.
Once you get a date and time, PREPARE. Think about discussing a better method of studying, what is or not helping, past experiences with other teachers…Here are some basic questions to keep the meeting focused and meaningful:
- How do I prepare for an exam in your class?
- What other resources are available that could help me besides the textbook?
- What has helped your students in the past?
- Do you have any additional study tips that may help me?
- How do you manage time in very stressful situations or during an exam?
- If the subject or textbook is hard to follow or complicated, what should I focus on?
Avoid questions that will show laziness i.e. can you just give me the answers or tell me what’s on the test? Do not be judgmental, talkative, confrontational, sarcastic, or ask too many questions…None of that will help you for the exam. YOU must learn nursing like it’s your last name so keep your meeting short and sweet, so you can get back to studying and be more focused.
Extra Considerations
- A meeting is good for developing a rapport, so you don’t always have to go because you are having problems. However, time is valuable and you have to be mindful of that so they won’t get irritated. Consider other forms of communication such as texting and emailing. This is also a good guide if you’re using tutoring services or looking for additional help.
- Try to limit yourself to <3 meetings per semester (think about the beginning of the semester, midterms/finals, or for a paper/project). Each meeting should also reflect your progress and efforts. You’re not there to have fun. If there’s no progress then a network with other students or follow the chain of command to seek guidance. Otherwise, go to the office on a mission! and get what you need to pass the course 🙂
Also, check out tips on revising your PowerPoint lectures
