A fundamental part of college is the relationship between students and faculty.
The two groups have similar goals; students want to learn the course material, and professors want to help students learn it. But despite their best efforts, students and faculty do not always see eye to eye.
Salt Lake Community College student Rachel Witt says the biggest problem she faces with professors is their ability to teach in a way that she can understand. She adds that the way professors present a subject has an impact on her ability to stay “motivated and interested.”
Professors aren’t perfect
SLCC does its best to hire and retain the best faculty possible. But professors are people too, and don’t always have time to make sure each student is caught up on the material.
While it’s no secret that students learn at different paces, it’s important to realize that not all professors are created equal and that an instructor may have their own goals in mind for a course.
“Generally speaking, I would like my students to feel the passion for the subject that I am teaching,” says SLCC music professor Craig Ferrin. “I love my courses and subjects and want others to enjoy them as much as I do. I also want the students to leave the class better prepared for their next class or professional assignment.”
Initiative is important
Not all students blame their educational woes on their professors. Some believe that students must take initiative in their own education and ask questions when they are confused.
“My professors are great,” SLCC student Fran Mansfield says. “They only have one style of teaching though, but students don’t ask questions. It’s the student’s responsibility to ask questions.”
Professors can have a positive influence on their students, but ultimately it is up to the student to do the work.
“Sadly, with some students, we can lead them to the fountain of knowledge but we can’t make them drink,” Ferrin says. “A lot of what a student gets out of a class is determined by the attitude the student brings to the class.”
