College Professors and Pronouns: An Inside Look

The practice of asking for and using student pronouns has gained prominence in recent years, reflecting a shift towards greater inclusivity in educational settings. While this is a relatively new trend, its adoption varies widely among colleges and professors.

Introduction to the Practice

I have been attending college on and off since 1999 and only recently, in the last few months, have I encountered professors who explicitly ask for students' pronouns. At the university I currently attend, it has become common for individuals to introduce themselves with their pronouns in classes, especially since the transition to online learning. Professors have also added pronoun sections to their syllabi to emphasize the importance of using the correct pronouns for each student.

The Frequency of Asking for Pronouns

Personal experience suggests that professors seldom, if ever, directly ask for pronouns. Pronouns are not commonly used to address students in class, with “you” being the preferred pronoun. Exceptional circumstances, such as discussing a student with a third party or writing a recommendation, may require the use of pronouns like “he” or “she.”

Factors That Influence the Likelihood of Asking for Pronouns

The likelihood of a professor asking for pronouns is heavily influenced by several factors, including the university's culture, the professor's personality, and the field of study.

University Culture: Universities located in major cities, especially coastal areas, are more likely to encourage the use of pronouns. Additionally, universities with a predominantly Democratic electorate, a progressive social philosophy, or classes in social work might be more inclined to adopt this practice.

Professor's Personality: Professors who are more socially-justice-oriented are also more likely to ask for and use pronouns. However, even in universities that meet these criteria, not all professors will take this step.

Real-World Examples and Exceptions

While some colleges have adopted the practice of asking for pronouns, the reverse is also true. For instance, theology classes at rural, Christian-affiliated universities in deeply conservative states with professors who believe the Bible is the literal word of God are unlikely to ask for or use pronouns.

It is essential to recognize that the U.S. is more socially and politically diverse than media and Hollywood portray. The majority of movies focus on urban, coastal, upper-middle-class life, which often leans liberal. However, much of the country is far more traditional, and sometimes these two worlds can be geographically close.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while asking for and using student pronouns is becoming more common in some educational settings, the extent and frequency of this practice vary widely. Understanding the factors that influence this practice can help students and educators navigate these differences more effectively.