Handling Problems, Pitfalls, and Surprises in Teaching: Some Guidelines

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1. Be aware that two kinds of contracts exist in the classroom.
2. You are a human being. Admit to and share your humanity.
3. Use outside resources, including colleagues. Remember, you are not alone.
4. Honesty is the best policy.
5. Listen with empathy and make sure you have all necessary information before making a decision.
6.Think strategically about the problem.
7. Think about ways a difficult situation might be turned into a learning opportunity.
8. Remember that each student is a member of a larger group that comprises the class as a whole. Keep issues of fairness in mind.

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