Developing as an Instructor | Origin: ED101
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Effective Teaching Strategies --> Developing as an Instructor
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
This module was a reminder that everything I do as an instructor - in and out of the classroom - is being watched. This also makes it exceedingly important to ensure my appearance and conduct at ALL times is appropriate and an effective model for my students.
It is important to excite our students about their nursing path and goals. Remembering what it was like to be a nursing student will serve our students well.
As an instructor we are what is guiding the next generation on their career paths. As such we need to be the very best we can be everyday and continue improving ourselves and our knowledge of the curriculum. Choose to be a positive role model in their life everyday.
The key takeaways that I have gotten from this module are the things I personally strive for in my personal life. I take my presentation to the outside world very seriously as far as appearance, verbal and non-verbal communication, as well as knowing when to listen versus when to speak. Being a good instructor is all about understanding the students and their needs, as well as figuring out how to best help them.
I learned that I need to find my own teaching style and to look back at my old instructors on what I liked and did not like. It's important to show your students a way of teaching that is easy for the teacher to understand and a way that will be easy and also fun in a way for the students to understand. Also, it is important to be professional for the students. We are not there to babysit, we are there to teach and motivate the students to want to learn and to want to do better. It is also important to model yourself in a way that is professional and respectful to all.
I learned the importance of being early to class and being a model to our students. For some of the students that have not entered the trades yet, we are the first people in the industry they see. We need to take on that role and be the model of a proper professional in our field to allow them to see what they should aim for as a model tradesman.
Proper Preparation, Model Behavior, and Expert Knowledge will be the foundations for my success as an educator. These ideals apply to all situations in the classroom as well as the workplace, even for personal further education and technical skills development.
Instructional style involves wrapping together your personality and competencies into a presentation format that will inform, encourage, and instruct your students.
Finding your voice as an instructor is an exciting endeavor, as it's our opportunity be the difference that makes a difference! I always knew I would have an opportunity to end mediocrity, but this is a great way to capitalize on my strengths, and influence the next wave of professionals to shine. For the last decade and a half, my instructors' ideas would float through my challenges - so now I can draw upon the community of leaders, and set the tone for the years ahead for the students.
Confidence, integrity, and empowerment are available through my guidance! Part of my philosophy of passive leadership (show, don't just tell) is to make sure they don't have to learn the hard way to play it safe, don't take risks with your reputation! Stay clean- literally and figuratively, because the only thing we leave behind is how we made people feel! There's a wealth of great ideas here, and to reinforce the things that work, and don't cave in when mistakes occur. Turn them into lessons, and do not repeat those things that aren't representative of our values!
We have an opportunity to put a flavor on this recipe for success, and our kitchen needs to be in order - ready to take orders, and cook up some 5 star brilliance! It's not necessary to copy one another, but don't deviate from the standard- for legal reasons as instructors - and for predictable performace! This isn't just science, it's an art! But don't get it twisted, this kindness is a means to an end- and respectful, ethical results are reflected in the grades - but it's an honor and a privilege to pass the torch to light your path! Our world changes often, and it benefits everyone to stay sharp on the cutting edge of things. If you're not growing, you're dying like a dinosaur. As leaders, our actions speak volumes - so keep a finger on the pulse of those who follow, and make sure they're picking up what we're putting down!
Be early, be enthusiastic, know your subject, manage the content, plan effectively, and lead by example.
I enjoyed the discussion regarding professionalism. I aligned with a lot of ways the module described professionalism, e.g. speaking with my peers professionally. Some pitfalls that were mentioned also were thought-provoking and appreciated. I look forward to hearing and learning more!
I was reminded to bring positive energy into the classroom and the importance of setting a professional tone.
I learned that being successful in teaching includes a lot more than just understanding and relaying your subject matter. Students need to feel safe, respected, and engaged in order to maximize their learning and intake. This is why a student that may be struggling in one class can excel in another, even when both teachers are experts in their field. Teaching and learning comes down to modeling, reflecting, and working with your students.
On this module I learned that being a teacher/instructor is like being a role model for the students from how you dress to how you talk. Also how to interact with the students makes them feel like you are passionate in what you do and knowledgeable of the material you are teaching. You are their guide for the real world situations and try to set them up for success.
This module helped me reflect on the importance of continuous growth as an educator and the impact that effective teaching practices have on student success. I learned that successful instructors are lifelong learners who regularly evaluate their teaching methods, seek feedback, and adapt to the changing needs of students.
I was reminded that while instructors are primarily hired to educate, the role frequently requires them to act as managers in addition. Coordinating student needs, managing classroom operations, and addressing day-to-day challenges can significantly expand responsibilities beyond teaching alone. We should come prepared to embrace this role as well.
Students use you as a model on how they should act in their perspective careers.
Learned that as instructors, we must set the example for our students by being prepared and always improving.
I think what I took from this module is the importance of being prepared. Being able to effectively teach starts with the background work that is done along with clear goals of how we are instructors can improve throughout our teaching career.
