My Freshman Year: May 5, 2010

Rebekah Nathan's chapter on Academics was very interesting. Our group definitely saw similarities between the examples given in the book and within our own lives. For example, one of the "unconscious norms" that we identified with was the idea that it is important to remain equal with the students and to be a part of the group, rather than identify oneself with the teacher. Also, we recognized that the questions Nathan perceived were "good ones" were actually ones that we use quite often, rather than contributing to class discussions. All of us in our group at one time or another have asked questions concerning the details of an upcoming assignment due to the fact that we are being graded on the assignment and want to know exactly what the expectations are ahead of time. We also noticed how often the kids in class that do ask questions or state opinions are looked down upon or perceived as "annoying". Instead of appreciating that student's contribution, many students, including us, have felt annoyed towards a classmate who is simply trying to contribute to class discussions. Many of us were struck as well with the realization that true to Nathan's description, professors have a difficult time trying to stimulate class discussions. There is an obvious feeling of apathy among the students when professors would try to engage the class in discussion or debate. Either fellow students do not care or know about the topic at hand, or they are simply too afraid to assert their opinions. It is sad that in places of higher learning "ideas are rarely debated, and even more rarely evaluated" (Nathan, 95). This is a special time in college students' lives and it is a valuable part of the learning experience to articulate beliefs or ideas and watch the classroom explode with ideas. By class debates and open, respectful discussions of issues, students form their own opinions and ideas about the issues happening in the world. Are students too afraid of offending others by stating their own opinions? It is a sad fact that classrooms are changing in America, but perhaps the behavior of students could change if some students, including us, raised our voices without hesitation during discussions and debates. We also thought it was interesting that most students were more interested in "the college experience" instead of learning. Although college life is important, academics should be more than simply something one has to do, it should be an exciting part of college. However, one must acknowledge the fact that Nathan was around freshman students who most likely weren't taking classes in their major yet and were just getting used to college. These new students probably were more concerned with the "college experience" the first year, however, as one observes upperclassmen it is truly evident at how different they are than the first year students as well as their passion for their chosen major. Perhaps Nathan's observation would have yielded different results if she was around upperclassmen.