The Chronicle of Higher Education: Colloquy

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There was an important aspect of the Chronicle story that seemed to be overlooked: Most of the cases of uncivil behavior which were discussed involved faculty members who were female, Asian or both.

I am aware of the how disruptive students can become. I am also aware that, as a European white male, I have little problem keeping order. I have thrown students out of class, I have stopped in mid-sentences and waited for silence, and I have told students they are not paying for a grade but for my expertise (would a patient tell a doctor what medicine to prescribe, a mechanic how to fix a car).

I have done this and more and never had a complaint about my methods in maintaining order. In fact many students have expressed approval. However, colleagues who are female and/or of a non-white European background have had very different experiences.

This just goes to show that among at least some of our young college students, racism and sexism is alive and well.

-- Fred Fejes, Associate Professor Florida Atlantic University (posted 3/26, 5:40 p.m., E.S.T.)
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