College Success Tip #3
CLASSROOM DECORUM
In every setting there is an appropriate or fitting set of accepted behaviors or moral standards one is to abide by. In the college classroom setting this is what I call "classroom decorum". As a college student whether you are an undergraduate studying architectural design or a doctoral candidate majoring in education it is imperative to follow appropriate classroom decorum. Below are Dr. Bryant's Top 7 suggestions students should follow in any academic environment.
1. COME TO CLASS ON TIME
It is important to not only attend class but to come to class on time. Don't come to class 10 minutes before the class is over, expecting an explanation on what was discussed in class that day. As a professor you would be surprised at how many students I've seen do this each semester more than once a week. When you come to class late accept that you have missed what was presented on that day.
2. DON'T SPEAK WHEN THE PROFESSOR IS INSTRUCTING
Honor one another above yourselves.
Romans 12:10 NIV
I am pretty sure this has happened to you one time or another, while you were speaking someone was ignoring you and conversing with someone else. When this happens, the individual speaking feels ignored and disrespected. It is one thing to speak to a classmate briefly regarding something you just missed, but it is another thing to have a full on conversation about the new boots you purchased, the date you went on the day before, or even working with someone to complete another teacher's assignment in another class.
3. BE MINDFUL OF TECHNOLOGY USE
In today's age technology is continually advancing. With access of smart phones, tablets, computers and other gadgets it is easy to get distracted when you become disinterested in a class. It would be wise not to pull out your laptop in full view of your instructor and sign on any social media sites for your entertainment. When utilizing technology in class be sure that it focuses on key assignments.
Also remember to turn your cell phone ringer on low or on vibrate, so that it does not disturb your classmates or instructor and DO NOT ANSWER PHONE CALLS IN CLASS.
4. RESPECT PROFESSOR AND CLASSMATES
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Proverbs 15:1 NIV
In order to receive respect you must give respect. Do not disrespect your professor or classmates when an issue arises, stay calm, and try to talk through it. If that does not solve your issue, be sure to go through the proper college administration/personnel channels in order to get the assistance and support you need.
5. FOLLOW COLLEGE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
If you want to succeed you must know the rules. College policies and procedures are provided for every class and the higher education institution as a whole. Most students can obtain the college policies and procedures on the academic institution's web page, or contacting a college academic advisor. It is important to take heed to these procedures so you will not violate your chances of graduation. So many students get kicked out of school, dropped from a course, or purged out of the academic system because they fail to follow college policies and procedures. So get familiar with them real quick, to avoid potential problems.
6. NEVER ASK AN INSTRUCTOR " ARE WE DOING ANYTHING IN YOUR CLASS TODAY?"
Now this is one of the most disrespectful things that I have heard each semester by at least one student. NEVER ask an instructor "Are we doing anything in your class today? Because I plan on going on a trip this weekend, or I have to do another instructor's assignment because she is so tough!
What you really just communicated to your professor is that they don't do anything important in the class and it is a waste of your time. Now I know some students don't literally mean that, but be careful, because that is disrespectful.
To some individuals it may seem like common sense, but there are some students who fall asleep in class. They probably have a plausible explaination for this occurence, but an instructor can interpret this as total disrespect. Don't do this, because you will miss vital information. Just because you are in class, you must participate and engage in course discussions and lectures.
Giving you something to think about,
Dr. Bryant
