What are some of the hardest classes to teach in college?

Hey everyone, just out of curiosity, I wanted to know - What, according to professors, are the most difficult classes to teach in college? I've always wondered what the other side of the classroom experiences.

There's a lot of variability in what might be considered the "hardest" class to teach in college, as it can depend on a number of factors including the discipline, the level of abstraction involved in the content, and the abilities and backgrounds of the students in the class. That said, there are some classes that frequently come up in discussions among professors.

Many professors find that introductory classes can be challenging to teach, particularly those in fields with a large body of foundational knowledge, like biology or history. These courses tend to have large enrollments, often including many students who aren't majoring in the field and may not have a strong interest in the material. Professors have to balance keeping the large variety of students engaged while covering a wide range of topics.

In contrast, upper-division and graduate-level courses in most disciplines can be quite challenging due to the complexity of the material. These classes require a deep understanding of the subject matter, and there is often less consensus about what must be covered, which may require professors to develop a lot of their own teaching materials.

Courses in fields that require a lot of abstract reasoning and theoretical understanding, such as theoretical mathematics or philosophical theory, can also be difficult to teach. Students sometimes struggle with these abstract concepts, making them hard to teach effectively.

Lab-based or hands-on courses can also be challenging due to the logistical complexities. These might include science labs, performing arts courses, or art studio classes. There's also a different type of preparation involved with these classes, as they often require setting up equipment, coordinating with teaching assistants, and managing safety.

Lastly, any course on controversial or sensitive topics can be tough for professors. They need to create a respectful and open environment where everyone - regardless of their personal beliefs or experiences - feels comfortable contributing to discussions. Examples might include courses in sociology, political science, or gender and cultural studies.

So, while there's no one-size-fits-all answer to your question, hopefully, this gives you a sense of the range of challenges college professors may face!