FAQ’s: Letters To Dr. Kirk About Common Student Issues

I'm teaching a two day workshop at the University of Akron this week and one of the sessions is titled "Ask Dr. Kirk," where faculty can ask me questions on teaching and managing their classroom.  I thought I would share some frequently asked questions below:

• What if I don't know the answer to a student's question?

• How do I get quiet students to participate in class?

• How do I get my students to come to class on time?

• I look very young for my age and am having trouble getting the students to take me seriously.

• How do I handle sensitive issues in the classroom such as a student with strong body odor?

• How do I deal with students whining about doing their homework?

• How do I do a good job teaching and have a personal life too?

• My university is switching to doing evaluations online.  Will this affect my rating by the students?

• Can you give me some tips on making grading easier?