The Etiquette of Teaching
As a tutor, you may occasionally encounter situations where a student’s strong accent or quiet speech makes it challenging to understand them. Handling these moments with tact and understanding is crucial to maintaining a positive, respectful learning environment. Here are strategies to address such situations while ensuring the student feels supported, not criticized.
When you can’t understand a student due to their accent, avoid saying, “I don’t understand you,” which can come across as dismissive. Instead, try a more encouraging approach, such as, “Could you repeat that for me?” or “Can you say that a little slower?” This phrasing shifts the focus to collaboration rather than critique.
If the student speaks too softly, rather than bluntly asking them to “speak up,” you can say, “Your idea sounds interesting, but I’m having trouble hearing you. Could you say it a little louder?” This approach emphasizes your interest in what they are saying, making the request feel more supportive.
Encourage open communication by normalizing the need for clarity. Share that everyone—yourself included—sometimes needs repetition or clarification to understand fully. This builds trust and reduces any embarrassment the student may feel.
Additionally, provide tools to aid communication, such as breaking sentences into smaller parts, using gestures, or writing down difficult words. These techniques help the student express themselves more clearly over time.
Three Possible Benefits of Applying Tact and Understanding:
Strengthens student confidence by fostering a supportive atmosphere.
Enhances communication and learning outcomes through respectful dialogue.
Builds trust, encouraging students to participate without fear of judgment.
Thank you for promoting kindness and patience in every teaching interaction!
