Instructor/Student Conflict

Student Conflict Incorrect Method

Maria has an idea that she has failed her history quiz. During a phone conversation with her friend on her lunch break, she expressed her frustrations with the quiz. Professor Williams is well known for her infamous history tests. Most students avoid taking her class because it requires at least four hours of daily reading. As class begins, Ms. Williams passes out the graded papers. Suddenly, when she got to Maria’s desk she loudly joked “guess you study as well as you know your history,” and hands Maria her paper with an “F” on it. Maria, was totally embarrassed by the comment and began shouting “how in the hell are you going to tell me what I know and don’t know about my history.” “You are a prick.” This method of conflict is incorrect because it demonstrates criticizing and defensiveness. According to Wilmot & Hocker (2007), criticizing makes a harsh start-up. When the conflict begins with a critical statement, the conflict is likely to escalate quickly ending up in a destructive effect.

Student Conflict Correct Method

Maria has an idea that she has failed her history quiz. During a phone conversation with her friend on her lunch break, she expressed her frustrations with the quiz. Professor Williams is well known for her infamous history tests. Most students avoid taking her class because it requires at least four hours of daily reading. As class begins, Ms. Williams passes out the graded papers. Suddenly, when she got to Maria’s she discreetly handed her paper and softly stated, “I believe that you really tried hard on the quiz. “Please see me after class so that we can discuss alternative studying techniques.” Although, Maria was disappointed that she failed the quiz, she felt