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Learner's Concern

Disclosure

I’m a female student and was distressed by a faculty member’s reaction when I answered a question in class. Because I responded in my natural tone, which is quiet, the professor seemed to think I was hesitant about my response. After I finished speaking, the professor said, “This is just like a woman to be so uncertain. If you’re sure of your answer, speak up!” I was embarrassed in front of the students and I felt that his comments were condescending to women, insensitive to my physical ability, and skeptical about my knowledge and confidence. Is there anything I can do?

The School of Medicine’s Guidelines for Conduct in Teacher/Learner Relationships states that “an atmosphere of mutual respect, collegiality, fairness and trust is essential” to promoting academic and professional success for both instructors and students. The guidelines—otherwise known as the Teacher-Learner Conduct Policy—outline educators’ responsibilities to treat all learners equally regardless of gender, race, religion or other aspects of their background.

At the same time, the policy requires that learners take responsibility to “communicate concerns about … teachers or the learning environment in a respectful, professional manner.” Review the policy on the Hopkins Medicine student Web page at hopkinsmedicine.org/som/students/policies/relationships.html for helpful information about how to respond.

You can give the faculty member courteous and respectful feedback by following a few key steps. Provide your comments in a private setting to preserve the instructor’s dignity. Describe the person’s behavior in nonjudgmental, factual terms, and then explain the effect that this behavior had on you and others. Finally, say either what you would like the teacher to do to redress the problem, what you would prefer the person do under similar circumstances in the future, or both.

If you’re uncomfortable approaching the faculty member on your own—or if you’re unsatisfied with the instructor’s response to your direct feedback—you may consult with the course director or an associate or assistant dean in the Office of Student Affairs for advice, support or potential intervention on your behalf. square

For more information, visit the Office of Policy Coordination' Web site: www.hopkinsmedicine.org/Research/OPC.

 
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