As we are coming to the end of the semester here at NSU, I have noticed a repeating pattern in regards to some of the courses I am taking, and my peers have noticed the same pattern. However, before I specifically state out what the pattern is, let us see if you can figure it out yourself.
Let us imagine two scenarios. Professor A teaches a class at NSU via the BlendFlex model. Professor A communicates with his/her students often about assignments and has a realistic understanding of certain students’ capabilities during these unprecedented times. Professor A adjusts his/her syllabus based on how the course is naturally progressing.
Meanwhile, Professor B also teaches a class at NSU via the BlendFlex model. Professor B took his/her class and simply put it online without any adjustments. Professor B does not check in with the students and refuses to hear feedback on assignments and make any changes to the course, regardless of student circumstances.
It is inherently clear which professor you would want to teach the classes you are taking. There is an obvious fault in the teaching style of Professor B.
As a student who experienced both of these types of professors this semester, I can safely say that I am fed up with Professor B, and in case you are still lost, the pattern here is that there are way too many professors like Professor B at NSU.
Learning online can be tricky enough, but add to that the global pandemic and the election. Attending “Zoom University” went from tricky to ridiculous. We are currently living in unprecedented and turbulent times, and as a student, it feels as if some professors disregard that information.
I honestly do not know if I can put myself through another semester like this, especially when we have professors who are unwilling to accommodate their students. If a professor is unwilling to hear feedback about the course, especially during this point in time, there is clearly something wrong. I refuse to sit back and put up with a class that is going to cause more harm than good to my mental state and my future.
I have and always will put my all into my coursework, but professors, I am pleading for you to act more like Professor A than Professor B. You never know what someone may be going through during these crazy times and having just a little bit of extra understanding and accommodation goes a long way. This year especially, a class cannot always be taught the same way that it has been taught years prior. We are living in a new time, an unknown time, and as an educational professional, that should be understood.
Give students a break, please. We are trying our hardest, and Professor B, you are not making this easy.
