What would you do in this situation?
I’m currently taking a class with a professor who, while somewhat pleasant, isn’t very effective. Their lectures focus on broad, vague topics about “being a better college student,” which are slightly useful but don’t provide any guidance on our actual assignments.
The content of the lectures doesn’t even scratch the surface of what’s on the midterm and final exams, which account for 50% of our overall grade. I learned this the hard way because I took the first part of this class last semester and barely passed with a D, significantly hurting my GPA.
I’ve reached out to classmates for help, but they’re just as confused as I am. Unfortunately, it’s too late to drop this class, and since it’s a required course, everyone has to take it regardless of their situation.
To make matters worse, the professor has a reputation for rarely responding to emails and not being accessible outside of class, making it extremely difficult to communicate my concerns.
Any suggestions or advice would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!
It sounds like you’re in a really frustrating situation, but there are definitely some steps you can take to help navigate this class and improve your chances of success. Here are a few things you might consider:
Reach Out to Classmates: Since many of your peers feel similar, try forming a study group. Even if no one has all the answers, collaborating can help you share knowledge and different perspectives on the material.
Consult Online Resources: If the lectures are vague, look for supplemental resources online. Websites like Khan Academy, Quizlet, or YouTube often have content that might clarify the key topics covered in your class.
Utilize Office Hours: Despite your professor’s reputation for being unresponsive, it’s still worth trying to attend their office hours. If they’re not available, see if a teaching assistant (if there is one) can offer you some guidance.
Contact Academic Support Services: Most universities offer academic support centers where you can get tutoring or advice on study strategies. They can also provide insights on the midterm and finals format.
Talk to an Advisor: If the situation continues to be overwhelming, consider reaching out to an academic advisor. They can help you explore options and resources that you might not be aware of.
Focus on Key Assignments: Since you know the midterm and finals are heavily weighted, prioritize understanding the types of questions that have been previously asked and the major themes from your readings.
Take Notes and Record Lectures: If permissible, record lectures or take detailed notes to refer to later. This can help you keep track of what’s been covered and help you identify gaps in your understanding.
Stay Organized and Manage Your Time: Create a study schedule leading up to the midterm and finals. Break down the material into manageable sections to avoid cramming.
Stay Positive and Reflect: Acknowledge that this situation is tough, but try to stay positive. Reflect on strategies that worked in other classes, and don’t hesitate to adapt them for this situation.
Remember, you’re not alone in this, and many students face challenges like these. Focus on what you can control, and seek help where you can find it. Good luck!