. We have a lousy forecast. Ice. Snow. Got it. It's going to mean a couple of classes get cancelled. We'll have to reschedule some shit. Not a problem. It's not my first rodeo. But what on earth has conspired to rot 3 of my students and their minds when they send me these three emails:[+]
Dr. Cliff: I see the snow is going to cancel class today. It made me wonder if after the storm passes if I could retake the test from last week. I've been so nervous all winter about weather, and I just know that if I had another week I could do a better job. When we took the test earlier I was so freaked out about our bad winter
.Testy Tina
Dear Prof. Cliff,
I heard that the school is closed today. I know you were going to lecture today on the new [material.] Could you just send me those notes instead so I can get ahead. A PDF file would be best for me so I can use it on my phone
.iPhone Ian
Dear Cliff,
I heard on the radio that the university is closed today. Instead of class can I come by your office and talk about the end of the semester project? Will you be there after 5, because I have some things I have to do first
.Deadbrain Dick
[+]
Is it okay if I just delete all of them?
Yes. You can delete all of them. Or you can just write back "That won't be possible" to each one, and then delete any further replies, if they are so bold.
ReplyDeleteI hope your question is rhetorical.
ReplyDeleteThe presumption, shamelessness, and outright stupidity of most student e-mails never cease to amaze me, but I've adopted the practice of ignoring any message that reveals inattention to the syllabus or material discussed in class. From the moment the testimonies begin--the defective alarm clocks, cars, bodily functions, etc.--I hit the button. I've acquired something of a reputation as a prof who "never answers e-mail," but who also doesn't tolerate whiners. It hasn't come back to bite me in the rear...yet.
ReplyDeleteYes, you may delete the students. You, your school and society will be better for it. What you do with their emails is inconsequential.
ReplyDeleteDelete and require sterilization.
ReplyDeleteI tried M'burgher's approach last year -- and let students know about it. Result: complaints on my evaluations that I was "making fun" of them.
ReplyDelete