Using the Montessori method would have solved many of the issues presented by the OP. Dave would have been in a group where he'd be able to show others directl

Using the Montessori method would have solved many of the issues presented by the OP. Dave would have been in a group where he'd be able to show others directly, if Dave wasn't in a group, he'd be quickly identified by the teacher as someone who didn't need help and could possibly benefit the group. Dave: <obscure question about array semantics> Teacher: Dave, it looks like you know a lot about arrays, Laura is struggling a bit, can you help her out? Dave was seeking attention and to be recognized as having advanced skill, the Montessori method would have allowed Dave to put his talents to good use while not being a disruption to the class. Dave isn't a jerk, it's just that the instructor is using antiquated teaching methods from the 19th century, and under utilizing his teaching resources. Clearly this person is someone who's authority should indeed be challenged.