An Unfortunate Disconnect

Communication Breakdown (pt 2) by kilgub on Flickr

I was talking to a newly returned student this evening about how she plans to juggle attending both my learning center and the larger one down the street.

While we were figuring this out, she mentioned that she was taking a nursing assistant class at that larger school.  I said something to the effect of, ‘oh, I’m surprised they offer that.’

Well, it turns out she thought I said, ‘oh, I’m surprised you’re smart enough to take that class.’

Communication Breakdown (pt. 1) by kigub on Flickr

I clarified that no, no, I did not say such a thing and that I certainly don’t think it; I just did not know that they offered classes besides English and GED.  Well, she stopped laughing uncomfortably, so I hope that meant we ended up understanding one another…

I’m glad she was gutsy enough to call me out on what she thought I said.  I also can’t help but wonder how many other students think I’ve insulted them.  It’s disconcerting.