The College Republicans are seeking President Ladner's attention in the ongoing debate over professor bias in the classroom. The group plans to deliver a letter signed by concerned students that asks to have the issue addressed on teacher evaluations.
While in the classroom, students can sometimes feel intimidated by professors and their viewpoints. Professors should actively solicit opposing views, even when these perceptions oppose the views of the professors or the majority of the class.
Student silence is bad no matter what side of the political aisle you find yourself on. Those who hold a minority opinion don't help challenge views of the others by remaining silent. And for those who just agree with the majority, parroting the teacher is not the right way to get ahead.
Many students keep their opinions to themselves for fear of receiving a less-than-stellar grade . Professors are free to have their own ideas, but well-reasoned arguments from other sides should not be summarily dismissed. Grading assignments should be entirely based on student effort and research, not one fallible person's take on a subject. Besides, engaging in nonstop Bush-bashing may help pass time in a block, but how much are you really learning from that?
Having an open dialogue in the classroom can only make the learning experience at AU better. Listen to the liberal or conservative student in your class; try and understand where they are coming from. Having your views challenged should encourage you to find ways to support them.
