The scenario presented in Case Study 3 is uniquely challenging in that there are several things that one must consider when evaluating the best course of action.
First of all, the teacher has already recognized that this could become an issue. Whenever a teacher suspects that of a student, especially at the high school level, they should make a point to write that down in some way. Remember if you have noticed it, others may have noticed it as well. Or the student may have said something to one of their friends. With this in mind, it would also be advisable to leave the door to the classroom open anytime you are alone with a student, but in particular when this student is in the room with you.
Concerning the event mentioned in the case study, it is important to note that you should never touch in anyway, doing so could be misconstrued. In a very polite, but firm manner the teacher should indicate the level of inappropriateness in the student's actions. If the student has made no physical advance toward you, it would be wise to ask that he/she leave the classroom. Once that is done, it would be advisable to make note of the incident, and then report the incident to the principal immediately. If the student has touched you, it is important to excuse yourself immediately, going straight to the principal's office.
From there a plan can be drawn up as to how to proceed. Possible solutions could be the moving of the student to another teacher, private or joint counseling with the school counselor. Unless, the teacher feels threatened by the advance, it is always important to remember that the student may be confused and hurt by the teachers refusal and to not say anything that might hurt them further. And of course, the incident should be kept on a need to know basis.
Hi Matt,
ReplyDeleteI sense that you're a little uncomfortable with this scenario with the fact that you used second-person in your response even though the case study is structured to promote 1st person responses. This I completely relate!
I loved reading your response and I appreciate that you took a risk in not selecting the safe (and easy) case study one! Your response handled the situation very carefully by leaving the door open, writing down notes and reporting to principal (when the student makes verbal advances), and excusing oneself and going to the principal's office (when the student makes physical advances). I also like the fact that you acknowledged that the student might feel hurt and may need counseling.