Choosing Between Intelligent Lazy Students and Average Hard-Working Ones: A Teacher's Perspective

As a teacher, the decision on which student to focus on can greatly impact their educational journey. Would you concentrate on an intelligent but lazy student or an average hard-working one? In this discussion, we'll explore the pros and cons of both approaches and why, as a teacher, I prefer focusing on the latter.

Intelligent But Lazy Students

Intelligent students who are lazy can be a challenge for teachers. They often have the potential to excel but lack the motivation to put in the necessary effort. While they may eventually face a smarter instructor who won't settle for anything less than their best work, it can be a harsh reality that shakes them up. However, many of these students do manage to pull through and end up doing well in the long run.

The Shocking Reality

These students are likely to face a rude awakening when they encounter a more intelligent instructor. The realization that their earlier efforts might not be sufficient can be a jolting experience, but it often serves as a turning point for them. By the end, most of these students develop the discipline and determination needed to achieve success.

Average But Diligent Students

On the other hand, average students who are diligent often fare better without the need for a jarring awakening. Their consistent effort and willingness to work hard typically lead to positive outcomes, making them reliable and steady performers in the classroom.

My Teaching Philosophy

While I respect the potential of intelligent but lazy students, my preference leans towards working with average hard-working students. Here’s why:

They have ambition and a genuine desire to learn, making the teaching process more rewarding and engaging. These students are more likely to make steady progress and achieve their goals through consistent hard work. Working with them fosters a positive and motivating learning environment that benefits everyone involved.

A Personal Experience

One instance that comes to mind was when I tutored a boy who was failing all his high school classes. His mother was desperate for him to raise his grades to a C and pass his exams so he wouldn't have to repeat a year. Initially, I expected him to at least try to succeed, but his attitude towards school was decidedly negative. He seemed extremely intelligent, as demonstrated by a brilliant first draft of an English paper he submitted. However, the lack of structure, organization, and poor spelling and grammar highlighted his aversion to putting in the effort required to do a good job.

The Dilemma of Motivation

The issue was not a lack of intelligence. Instead, it was a profound aversion to high school learning. He preferred gaming and television, showing that his disinterest was not a lack of capability but a lack of motivation. While it's true that if he had combined his intelligence with a desire to achieve, the tutoring would have been more enjoyable and productive. However, every hour I spent helping him was filled with frustration. He didn't see the value in his education and was not willing to invest the time and effort necessary to succeed.

Preferable Students

Working with students who have ambition and a genuine interest in learning is vastly more fulfilling. For example, a student I'm currently working with is learning both Geometry and Algebra to get ahead. While he may not be particularly bright, his ambition and hard work make him one of my favorite students. He aspires to do well and is willing to put in the time and effort required to achieve his goals. This student's dedication and perseverance are qualities that make the teaching process more enjoyable and satisfying.

Conclusion

While we should recognize and nurture the potential of intelligent but lazy students, my personal preference and experience as a teacher align with focusing on average hard-working students. These students are more likely to achieve success through consistent effort and have a genuine desire to learn. By working with them, we create a more positive and engaging learning environment that benefits everyone.