It's all about keeping things in perspective.
I got taught a lesson last night in class. And I'm determined to remember this lesson when dealing with people in everyday life.
I have a professor whom I personally like very much. We are about the same age, graduated from the same school around the same time, and we have a very good rapport. However, he is very disorganized. So disorganized that it's made this class very difficult to navigate and enjoy. But I feel like he's putting forth the effort to teach as best he can - he brings note cards to class, uses PPT presentations, and his lectures are long.
So, needless to say it's been a frustrating semester. The rest of the class feels the same, and is not ashamed to roll their eyes or gripe under their breathe during class. I keep my griping to myself, but I still feel bothered, and have often thought that perhaps he needs some additional training before he tries to teach a class.
Last night, towards the end of the lecture, he started to talk about how his career path was changed which has lead him to where he is today - a professor, a counselor.
Less than two years ago his two children died in a car accident.
That explains a lot.
He is still finding his way.
He is still recovering.
And he is doing the best that he can.
And that is all most people do - the best that they can.
So was I doing the best I could to deal with my annoyance? No.
I sat there, feeling ashamed that I did was not able to see past my frustration and think about why he might be having difficulty.
And yes, perhaps he needs a bit more training before he is in charge of his own class. But maybe what he needs is a fair, honest and comprehensive review of his teaching style, so that he can improve. Any time I finish a class, I am asked to assess the professor and the course. I am always truthful, and take the time to put thought and effort into the assessment.
I will be doing the same for him.
After he told his story, he wrapped up class for the night. Only a few people thanked him for sharing, and the majority of the class bolted from the room.
I felt the need to connect with him, partly because I felt terrible for not thinking past my own frustration, but because he shared something so personal and painful and I wanted to thank him for it.
I related this situation to my aunt after class, and she said what I was thinking - this was a lesson that I can learn from and should remember.
And I will.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
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1 comment:
Yikes. Don't think I would have any desire to go on after something like that.
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