Consultation_Too little time too many students

Its the first week into the study week for the O students. How is everyone surviving? I hope all are studying hard and being disciplined in your revision.

This week was an extremely tiring and frustrating week. Other than Monday which I had set aside for admin and marking, the rest of the week was consultations after consultations. I was practically camping at the back of the staffroom or in the humanities room! A teacher in the staffroom commented that I should be called 'Consultant Suan' :p

Consultation would come from as early as 8am and then would continue non-stop with a stream of students from all the classes til 1 plus everyday. The teachers were wondering what I did to make so many of them come searching for me. (No idea)

However, it was also a frustrating time. Firstly, I only had that number of hours a day for consultation but I had so many students. All of them wanted my undivided attention but I couldn't give to all. If I meet a group then the other one will have to wait. If I have several groups then they will all have to wait while I helped that one group. Secondly. I can't organise all of them together and then answer their questions at the same time because they are of different types of geography (pure and elective) and their standard and understanding of geography may be of different level. Thirdly, I was usually so exhausted after 1 plus due to the continuous consultation that I couldn't move beyond that. Finally, I still had alot of marking and admin work to do and they were piling high high. Sigh!

I can't reject any students who want to learn. I can't tell them I am too busy with others to help them. I feel bad asking some to go because 'that day is not 'their' day for consultation'. I can't say no when students pass me papers that they did and want me to mark because I know they put time and effort into them with the hope to improve. I can't help worrying for those who are weak but didn't look for me at all. And then worry more that when they finally do, I would not be able to give them more time. I can't tell the better ones, 'you are better, so can I don't help you. I have to help the weaker ones because they need me more.' It would be unfair. Sigh! If only, there is more me around. If only, there is more time. If only....

To the students whom I have disappointed and not able to give my attention solely to you.... I am very sorry. I know you want to do well and I know you need my help. I will try my best. I hope you will be patient and I seek your understanding over this matter.

Next week, on monday and tuesday I will not have any consultation due to marking day and science practical invigilation respectively. Wednesday will be kept aside for Elective Classes (e4,5,6) and Friday for Pure Class (e1) only. Thurday is for all classes. Due to too many requests, there will be no booking. However, if there are alot of people waiting then all consultation sessions will be kept to an hour limit.

Alternatively, you can email me your questions and I will try to answer them.

Next week is the final week before the O papers arrive..... everyone must take care of your health and not fall sick during this crucial period. Take more vitamin C and factor some rest time in your revision time-table okay?

written by Consultant Suan