How much should a teacher let their students know about them?

Question

I was just teaching a class, when a controversial subject came up, which was about younger women going out with older men (with a 20 year age gap). They were all having a disscusion about it and saying how awful and terrible it was when I piped up (very casually) that I have been married to a man 20 years older than me for 8 years, and that I met him when I was a teenager. It's quite a friendly class, and they're all adults, over 22. But is any information too much information when you're a teacher?

Answer 1

no, that's absolutely fine - do not worry!

Answer 2

no it's good that you can talk to your class and the more they get to know you on a personal level that is not to personal is fine  

Answer 3

No, it was relevant to the discussion. Its not like you discuss your private life all the time, and especially not divulging personal information at every opportunity!

Answer 4

I think in this case, you are fine. These students are adults. They can handle that kind of information. No worries! :)

Answer 5

i think the answer is teacher please tell the student not to go after the  man,we are blind,there is a play i watch which is SECOND CHANCE(a mexican film)the actor -don pedro was blind that he taught that the lady hefelt for was in love with him not knowing that the lady had a plan with somebody in order for them to take his property.which they do.Iwe Austin

Answer 6

If they are over 22, then there shouldn't be a problem with discussing information like that, but be cautious. Don't tell them where you live and personal details like phone numbers and stuff, because if you were to, for example; give them bad grades they may get 'revenge'. Sounds juvenile, but even at over 22 it happens.

Answer 7

I tell students things I am comfortable with them knowing. They tell me about boyfriends and problems and I tell them the odd thing I've done at the weekend.

I know a lot of teachers say don't share anything personal but I don't have a problem with it.

Expect anything you say to them to become common knowledge in the school / college.

Answer 8

No, they're adults so I'd say it was fine.  If you were teaching teenagers you would need to keep more distance but in your situation I don't think there's a problem!

Answer 9

You are teaching adults so the rules are different than if you were teaching teenagers. I don't think that you have revealed anything inappropriate unless you regret sharing that information. In a broader sense when a controversial subject comes up then you have to make it clear that you neither seek nor  provide personal information about individuals in the room including you.This makes it easier for less open student as well as keeping your professionalism intact

Answer 10

No they are adults... but that shocks me that they are so narrow minded.  I don't think that's too much information- it's not like your dissusing your bedroom life.  And they should know going into the proffesional world- that's not a comment you make openly in public!  What if there boss was married to a younger man or woman?  LOL

Answer 11

Remember the more information you give them the more you make yourself a target for unwanted abuse.  Children pass around information to other students and even other adults and teachers.   They can play one against the other.  If someone has a grudge against you this can be dangerous.  Even the best students can turn on you if they have a bad day and this could spoil your lesson and take away your authority as a teacher.  You need to keep your distance they are not your friends but students coming to school to be educated and this does not include your private life.  the less they know about you the better.  Firm but fair approach is best.

Answer 12

No not at all i think teachers hold to much information .

I don't like how they want to know what your lifes like who's you boyfriend how old he is but they won't say ?

You know

Answer 13

I agree with the other posters, in that I think this is ok. It is a good way to make a point. Also, in my opinion, the students learn a subject more effectively when able to relate the subject to actual experience.