If students don't think that you care and can relate…
“If students don't think that you care and can relate, especially as they get older, they tune you out. I didn't get it in my classes at the graduate school of education. I got it intuitively from my own experiences as a student.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Students disengage when they sense educators lack empathy or relevance, especially as they mature; genuine care fosters connection and learning.
In simple terms: Students tune out without feeling cared for.
Key Takeaway
Show empathy and relevance to engage learners.
Themes
education
empathy
student engagement
relationships
Mood
empathetic
concerned
Type
instructional
motivational
When to use this quote
- high school classrooms
- college seminars
- online courses
Key Concepts
relational pedagogy
student-centered teaching
trust
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you demonstrate care in large classes?
- What signals convey authenticity to older students?
A Different Perspective
Some students may still disengage despite effort.