'A' plus for AI programs

The system of associate instructors at IU is not perfect. The grounds-keeping is not perfect. Not every toilet functions all the time. Oncourse and Webmail have also been known to shut down just when we need them the most. You've probably made a few mistakes, too, but we won't highlight those now.\nBut like everything, especially in a university setting, imperfections are to be expected. \nA recent article ("Students, professors differ on quality of associate instructor program," IDS, Oct. 20) profiled some of the ways students whine about AIs in the University.\nWe agree the system isn't perfect, but we certainly don't think that makes it unsatisfactory.\nCommunication is the crux of the AI issue. It's understandable that a student would think there is a gap in communication between the AI and professor. Who do we e-mail? Who's grading what and with what standards?\nBut wait a minute. Another person should be involved in this triangle of communicating: the student.\nTo reiterate a common point, a student cannot take a course passively. He or she must be as active and involved with professors as they expect them to be involved with them.\nOf course, there are many undergraduates who feel like they're not getting what they paid for when it comes to AIs. Similarly, there are many undergraduates who feel the professors they received aren't worth the freshmen fees, either.\nFrosh know this: not every class, professor or AI will be the same, and you can't wait for end of the semester evaluations to voice your concerns. This isn't high school. If you're at work and you don't like your job, you can't wait for the CEO to make their quarterly walk-throughs to drop off your comment cards on management performance. If you want to create a good working environment, and we'd say the same thing for a good learning environment, you have to show some gumption. You're not just given this education; you have to earn it.\nWhile associate instructors receive a small stipend for their work, they're also learning the trade. We at the IDS know too well how harsh critics can forget this. Many are first-time teachers, and they're working to acquire the experience necessary to pursue teaching as a career. Your input is helpful.\nThe benefits of having AIs in classes outweigh the drawbacks. AIs aid the professors in handling large groups by grading paperwork and leading smaller discussion groups. Even greater, they create opportunities for more student-instructor interaction. You get more of that special attention Mommy and Daddy give you back home.\nThe system isn't perfect, and it won't ever be. But we're glad it's in place, and we encourage students to take advantage of everything provided to make the most of it.