[Teaching_Composition] Discomfort and instructor perspectives

[The Teach]

> seriously and as important for learning. Many students can handle 
> themselves with respect to other students when the environment is 
> supportive. The role of the teacher is crucial here.
I agree. Anytime a level of discomfort occurs during discussion, the 
instructor must model behavior and encourage mutual respect.

> I teach first-year composition to ESL students. Many of my students' 
> cultures believe that to disagree with an instructor is to show great 
> disrespect to the instructor. If I voice my opinion, their cultures 
> restrain them from further exploration of issues.

Of course it depends upon the particular culture, but also I suggest the 
gender of the teacher can be a factor. I have been told by female 
instructors teaching ESL classes that they are challenged as the authority 
figure and that the students do not want to accept what the female 
instructor offers in a discussion.

It does not occur with all nationalities, but is something that I have 
been told more than once by the female ESL teachers.

What think ye?

alex