[summer]

Probably more like thirds, with the last 1/3 just wanting a day off.

That's what I was thinking, too.

Also, I can't understand why some teachers make comments like this, when it's so easy to say something like: "Some people may think XYZ, while others think ABC." Whatever. You don't have to say YOU believe 1,2,3. It's really not your job to say what YOU believe -- it's your job as a teacher to present two points of view and let students exercise their critical thinking skills as you lead them in a discussion. But saying what YOU think is a turn off to every student who does not agree with you, and to others who now conclude they do not have to think anything through, since you, the teacher, did it for them.

[ndt]

"it's your job as a teacher to present two points of view and let students exercise their critical thinking skills"

One professor (basically a glorified debate class) I had that stands out in my mind had the most amazing ability to completely detach from the argument. One day he would be arguing as an apologist for Lenin and the next sounded like a Cato Institute spokesperson.

To this day I have no idea what the man actually believed.

[antceecee]

You are completely correct. When an instructor basically uses the classroom to 'preach' their own point of view, the students are smart enough to know they need to parrot those views if they want to get a good grade.
If a student disagrees openly with that instructor they risk destroying their grade point average. This affects their college eligibility. Is it any wonder that our colleges and universities are filled with left wing nutcases? If they grade their little minions with the 4.0 and those who disagree with 2.0, a conservative thinker is at a disadvantage. Conservative students have to go along to get ahead. They have to hide their opinions. This instructor should look in the mirror if he wants to see who is like Hitler.