Frustrated in Nashville

I have two issues which are concerning me as of late. First, I spent most of the day yesterday working on Chapter 2 of my proposal and it needs more work than I anticipated. I made some progress, but I need large chunks of time to make some real headway. At this rate, I am only getting the equivalent of about 3 days per month. I won’t be ready to defend my prosal until the end of Summer at this rate. About half of my cohort have already defended theior proposals and that adds a measure of pressure. Please pray that I’ll be able to get some more time.

Also, I just taught my class for the 4th time tonight. I shared some of these thoughts with Gary on Sunday, but I’ll enlighten the rest of you. I was reticent to teach undergrads from the beginning, but wanted to get my foot in the door. My concerns were (and are) twofold. First, I was not all too excited about teaching a younger-than-experienced adult. I was concerned that their level of academic prowess and desire for learning would be less than acaceptable for my high standards. I was right. Second, I was concerned that they might not be engaged because this is a required class and they might not understand the workplace examples the application of this fairly practical subject of Organizational Communication. I was right on both counts and am somewhat dissapointed at the realization that these 19-20 year olds are probably a cut above those one might encounter ar a state institution. If I am right, I can only find solace that I don’t teach at a state school. I don’t reacll so many slackers in one class when I was in school. I am, however, willing to accept the fact that my memory may have failed me somewhat. I thought tonight about actually dumbing down the class to their level and/or to their expectations. I just can’t bring myself to do that yet. Please pray that I’ll have more patience and that I’ll find a way to reach the students.
David