Bullying

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Who would of thought that an instructor in a private school would have to deal with bullying.  Or being bullied.

They are adults, within a program that they would want to be in.  Perhaps would be at least grown up enough to recognize and support one another, and not disrespect each other.    Its true, life is truly like high school.   The students leave high school, but many do not grow up.  It seems that many do not acquire the gown up skills in this area.    And women, are just the worst!!

 

 

A few recollections from my earlier days as a new teacher.    Students really hone in on someone who is different.    There are all sorts of clickyness.   Younger students bullying older students.   Students bullying someone less developed.   Less social

skills.  Maybe not as outgoing.   Dressing different.  

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As a teacher I am always looking for the tattletale signs.   Exclusion

Students choosing to work with only certain other students.   Giggles and eye rolling at other students.  Sneers.   Reports of rude texting during  class .   Obvious hostility.

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Its gotten so bad in this generation that I am purposefully reminding students on day 1 that i will not be tolerated.  

Many instructors egnore it.   I refuse to.    Even if we have to have a discussion in class on what is appropriate behavior.

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I honestly dont think it is known what is appropriate anymore.   This generation raised on phones suffer from a lack of social skills and understanding.    As a result I have had to teach students appropriate behavior.   Right down to proper body language.    I now is apart of my Resume and Retail modules.  

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Students are regularly rude to me as well.   Sneering comments doing demos.  Im at the point I wont let students have their phones in use in class anymore.    

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I used to back down.   Be intimidated.   

Now I just get angry!     I call them out if I sense it.   

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If its ignored, it perpetuates.   Usually there are underlining student issues.  

If it is called into the light, then once exposed, it can become a teaching moment.

Giving in to them only makes it worse.   Its up to instructors to call it out.   And teach those vulnerable to be strong.

Not tolerate the behavior.    AND, grow up themselves.    If I can do that, that I can help students of today grow up.

Be individuals.

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