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How do you develop character?

Article Excerpt
Abstract

Air Force ROTC does an excellent job of developing character in college students by creating solid lesson plans (containing core values, discipline, professionalism, and self-discipline lessons/case studies), by the positive influences of cadre members, upper-class cadets, and peer cadets, by providing a family environment and structure, and with outstanding monetary rewards. Universities could use some of these tactics to develop character in students; however, some are indigenous to AFROTC/a military training environment.

Background: A Study in Contrasts

Imagine walking into a university classroom as a professor, and it is only 1/2 to 2/3 full. As you survey the room, 1/3 of the students appear to be hung-over, another 1/3 are in a catatonic state for an undetermined reason, and 1/3 seem fairly eager to learn. In this rather easy, freshman-level class of 70 students, approximately 8-10 earn a grade of D or F. When the course/instructor critiques are turned in, they are positive regarding the class and extremely positive about your work as an instructor. However, several of the critiques have very odd comments. For example, 2-3 of the critiques say, "He was a great and funny instructor; however, he would have been even better if he would have done 'shrooms with us." What would be your overall impression of the character of these 70 students?

Now, contrast the aforementioned information with the following. You walk into a university classroom as a professor, and all 30 of your students are not only present, but also, they rise when you enter the room and remain standing until you tell them to take their seats. As you survey the room, all of the students are attentive and seem eager to learn. In this class of 30 students, earn a D or F, and or 1 earn a C; the overwhelming majority of students earn an A or B. When the course/instructor critiques are turned in, they are positive regarding the class and extremely positive about your work as an instructor. None of the critiques have odd...

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