I concur with Rhea's comments. My 1st read was also that something difficult is bad. Or that challenging means too much effort or above their abilities. Not a good thing when faculty are actively working to challenge their students. Dr. Jennifer Withington Asst. Professor of Biology SUNY Oneonta 116 Science I Oneonta, NY 13820 607-436-3421 From: Teaching Breakfast List [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Nowak, Rhea Sent: Monday, November 24, 2014 2:57 PM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: Re: Are Your Assignments "Challenging"? ""Challenging" means an assignment that confusing or random; a frustrating assignment that doesn't make any sense or is inadequately explained." Wow- Does this mean we have a generation of students that think something that is difficult is bad? A question that requires they ask questions to clarify is bad? And something where they can come up with the answer right away is good? If I am reading this correctly this is something to be concerned about. Best, Rhea Rhea Nowak Associate Professor of Art SUNY Oneonta Ravine Parkway Oneonta, NY 13820 607-436-2827 From: <Greenberg>, Jim <[log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>> Reply-To: Teaching Breakfast List <[log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>> Date: Monday, November 24, 2014 at 9:29 AM To: "[log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>" <[log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>> Subject: Are Your Assignments "Challenging"? "Challenging" means an assignment that confusing or random; a frustrating assignment that doesn't make any sense or is inadequately explained.