What strategy should an instructor use when dealing with a student who feels they possess superior knowledge?

When an instructor encounters a student who believes they have superior knowledge, demonstrating confidence as the content expert is a highly effective strategy. This approach not only reinforces the instructor's authority and competence in the subject matter but also establishes a professional environment where all students feel their contributions are valued.

By showing confidence, the instructor can engage the student constructively, inviting them to share their insights while guiding the discussion in a way that aligns with the learning objectives. This not only respects the student’s knowledge but also redirects that energy into a collaborative learning experience.

In contrast, approaches such as condescending to the student undermine the instructor’s credibility and negatively impact the classroom dynamic. Allowing the student to dominate discussions may derail the learning process by focusing on a single perspective rather than fostering a diverse exchange of ideas. Changing the subject matter can sidestep the student’s contributions and may lead to disengagement or frustration, as it avoids addressing the student's feelings of knowledge superiority directly. Thus, demonstrating confidence as a content expert strikes the right balance in managing the classroom effectively and creating a positive learning environment.