Job Discussion Forums

AGoodStory · Joined: 26 Feb 2010 Posts: 738

I've been wondering what experiences teachers in various locations and academic settings have had when they have failed a student. Presumably "better" and more reputable schools will more often provide administrative support to the teacher, and back up the teacher's autonomy in the matter of grades. Others may pressure the teacher to change a grade, or even intervene by changing a grade given by the teacher. What is it like at your school?

Then there are repercussions from sources other than the school administration--the student, his family, perhaps friends. Early last summer I was assaulted by a student I had failed the previous semester. I sustained some serious injuries--fractured jaw, internal organ damage, multiple broken bones, and so on. I initially spent over three weeks in the hospital ICU, and have had a number of readmissions this past year for further surgery. (Not perhaps my first choice of how to spend a year off from work, but, still, lots of time to read!)

I'd be interested in hearing from others what the consequences--both direct and indirect--of failing a student have been. What has been your experience?

fladude · Joined: 02 Feb 2009 Posts: 432

johntpartee · Joined: 02 Mar 2010 Posts: 3258

I was somewhat obliquely threatened by a student several years ago; I had him removed from the class and he was not allowed to return. Ever. It happened about three weeks into the first term of a new school year, the student was a sophomore English major. He was out of my class for that term and the next one despite appeals from the dean, deputy dean, and several other teachers. I was the only oral English teacher. The school passed him (I gave him a grade of zero). BUT, this was in China. No surprises, there, huh?

santi84 · Joined: 14 Mar 2008 Posts: 1317 Location: under da sea

I have never failed a student because I have only worked with survival to intermediate English for immigrants (show up if you want, no grades assigned). Assessments were given, but no consequences beyond a bit of personal disappointment.

I have been in a classroom (as a student) where a student teacher failed and came back to confront the instructor. Fourth year university TESL class. Quite a sight. I stayed behind while the battle unfolded, in case the instructor needed any assistance. The rest of the room freaked out and left. I'm sorry that happened to you OP, that is exactly why I stayed behind for the instructor in my class.