Should I report my professor to the student deans office?

Question

I'm taking a 7 week Humanties class in summer school at a local Community college. It is almost over there is only 2 more weeks to go. However, I'm disturbed by one of the gestures my professor does in the classroom on a daily basis. She gives us all the finger when she is explaining something about Humanties. She says I'm trying to relate this to Humanties. But, it really offends me. I do not know about the other students but, they do not laugh when she flicks us up off in class. I only have two more weeks of this class then I'm through. Do you think I should go to the student deans office and complain about this? In addtion, she is a part time facuality and will not be working there in the fall. But,she works at other colleges in the local area. What should I do report her or mind my own business ?

Answer 1

She really shouldn't be doing that in class. You should mention it to the dean. It may or may not do any good. When you make a complaint, keep it simple and "surgical". One single complaint from you is considered an item. A whole bunch are considered whining.

The dean may very well tell her to tone it down or find another way to express herself.

Answer 2

You should not wait to report this problem. If you find the gesture to be offensive you should report it. This gesture may (it's not likely) have had some purpose in the classroom the first time it was used and explained, but it does not warrant repeated use. Let college officials decide if the gesture is appropriate in its use or not. You need to speak with the Dean of Student Affairs. If the matter is not resolved, then you should make an appointment with the Provost.

Answer 3

She's a professional and should behave professionally. If she really had a lesson for the gesture then okay, but if it is an occurrence that does not warrant it's use then It should be reported. Perhaps you might want to try talking to the teacher too, you may find that she is sympathetic to your feelings on the matter. However, if your grade is affected because of retaliation to your request, take action. Teachers are not above the rules and regulations of it's system. Classes should be structured and have accountability enforced on it's teachers. Decide which it is and go with how you feel.

Answer 4

I think you should interpret her gesture in the context it was used in. You wrote:

"She gives us all the finger when she is explaining something about Humanities. She says I'm trying to relate this to Humanities"

You're not being very specific about how she's using the gesture. Perhaps there is a very specific reason why she makes the gesture that relates somehow to the coursework? Also, I'm not trying to be rude, but is it possible that you just don't understand the reason for her gesture? I only question you because instructors at the community college and university level are professionals who probably wouldn't use such a vulgar gesture without a point.

Answer 5

professors are generally eccentric and you will find all kinds of strange things going on in university classrooms that you never expected, especially in humanities classes. subject matter in university classes are often of mature nature.

do you honestly believe the professor is doing this gesture to make a point that is relevant to the class material? even if it doesn't sit well with you, that's the professor's prerogative and you are taking her class. however, if you think she is being intentionally offensive for some reason, then that would be grounds to discuss the issue with the administration.

just be sure there is really a problem.

Answer 6

It would depend on if he or she was pressuring me and there was an implied threat to my grade, if I didn't accept. If that were the case, I would definitely report them. If, however, a professor asked to get together with me, I don't know. I think I would try to access whether the intentions were sexual or innocent. If they were sexual...I don't know. They could wait until I wasn't in their class anymore to ask me that. It's so inappropriate, that I actually would report them now that I think of it. Something is seriously wrong with a professor who would risk their career like that.

Answer 7

Yep, report this. She's obviously got some sort of stupidity disorder. Colleges seem to attract nutcase faculty (anyone with real talent gets a real job) but still they have to compete for that almighty dollar, and they will weed out the stupidest eventually. I'm sure she has a reputation among her peers already, and if she generates complaints everywhere she goes she'll eventually have to get a job in a factory. Also, it is self-defense. If she is quirky enough to do this, and she knows it bothers you, she'll probably screw with your grade as well. If you haven't registered a complaint beforehand then you won't have a leg to stand on if you complain after you get the bad grade. With your complaint on hand it greatly strengthens your claim of un-professional behavior on her part.

Answer 8

Doing something like that ONCE makes a surprising point.

Doing something like that TWICE solidifies that point.

Doing it THREE or MORE times, is UNNECCESSARY.

I would approach the TEACHER first and say that the "Finger Gesture" had made it's point and that everyone gets the point. (If the teacher doesn't get THAT hint, then report it.)

Answer 9

I would say it really depends on how much you enjoy drama and pettiness. Why should you go to the deans office and complain? Because it offends you? Who cares? Besides you of course? If it is all about you - then go for it.

Answer 10

I would report her the same way you explain it here. If it is offensive, then report it, maybe she will learn to use something other than that gesture to prove her point.