170 + 166 = 336
This is the number of students enrolled in the marketing and analytics courses I'm teaching this semester at ULaval FSA.
I already have 180 registrations for this summer.
This leaves little time to get to know these people individually, and even less to provide them with personalized feedback - which I still strive to do. These courses are 100% online and asynchronous - students appreciate the flexibility, going at their own pace, work-life balance, working remotely, working independently and so on.
This is the reality of higher education and the state of education and social interaction.
- Performance anxiety has increased over the decade I've been teaching;
- Personality conflicts are more common in teamwork;
- Missed assignments or requests for "just another chance" have increased;
- Arguments about grades because they "worked really hard" are more frequent (I evaluate the result, not the effort...).
And yet, I love my role!
- I hope to pass on my passion for these subjects beyond the classroom and into their professional lives;
- sharing knowledge strengthens your own - the way I've designed these courses keeps me on my toes. Students are exposed to theory, but also to the latest trends and developments;
- beyond the theory and tactical tips that students are looking for today, I strive to share real-life experiences and anecdotes that spice up the learning experience;
- and above all, there's a unique satisfaction in seeing these students grasp complex concepts, apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios and become skilled professionals.