Professionalism is not just about how you dress but being present not expecting the students to do something that you aren't doing.
To model professionalism in the classroom I can demonstrate punctuality, preparedness, and a respectful demeanor at all times. This includes using appropriate language, maintaining ethical standards, dressing professionally, and engaging with students in a supportive and nonjudgmental manner. By setting clear expectations, staying current with subject matter, and consistently modeling integrity and accountability, I reinforce the importance of professionalism not just as a concept, but as a daily practice that students can emulate.
This chapter reinforces the idea that teaching isn't just about the content or the words that come out of your mouth. It is how those words are spoken, how professionalism is modeled, and expectations are subconsciously and verbally set by the actions of the instructor as they not only display technical knowledge of their subject but also professionalism with their students and peers.
Model the behavior you want to see in your students. Clarity, consistency and compassion in your communication is critical.
In this module I learnt that instructors are looked up to as role models and should set good examples as models. Being respectful is reciprocal so therefore Your engagement skills should be based on mutual respect and the willingness to support student to thrive and achieve set goals.
Through this module, I gained valuable insight into the ongoing responsibilities of being an educator. One key takeaway is that effective teaching requires a commitment to continuous learning and improvement. As teaching strategies evolve, so must we as educators.
I also learned that building strong, respectful relationships with students is crucial. While it's important to be approachable, our role is not to be their friend, but rather a mentor and coach—someone who supports, guides, and challenges them to reach their potential. Equally important is being open to feedback from students. Their perspectives can help us grow and adapt in ways that better support their learning.
Finally, this module reinforced the powerful influence teachers have on shaping students' futures. The impact we make can last a lifetime, which is both a great privilege and a profound responsibility.
Through this model, I learned that learning is the most important thing in the classroom, not teaching. Due to this, I will continuously look for different ways to enhance the learning environment.
Being professional and modeling behavior helps the students stay engaged and created expectations of how they should act.
This course was very informative !!!I've learned the three major roles instructors play such as being a model, manager and motivator. Also, the skills required to teach such as being technical, professional, and personal. You must remain a teacher-student relationship, showing you care and motivating them with encouragement. Know your subject, be organized, and on time.
Modeling is how you demonstrate what is expected from the students, such as professionalism; dress professionally, be prepared, be courteous, etc. Motivation is important because it helps to keep students engaged; often it says to the students "I believe in you" and that can make the difference.
Model professionalism to students and set them up for success. Motivation, to me, is a great way to keep students engaged.
I learned that we need to know our student's needs and experiences. This will help me identify an instructional style that is consistent with their learning needs.
Good teaching gets students involved by having them actively work together. It means having a supportive classroom where everyone knows what's expected, and checking in regularly to see how students are doing and give them feedback. Tailoring lessons and showing how they relate to real life helps students learn better.
Going forward, I plan to:
Use more activities that make students actively involved in learning.
Create group work so students can learn from each other.
Use different ways to check understanding and change my teaching as needed.
Ask students for their thoughts to make learning better for them.
This module was helpful in that it drove home for me that instructors need to have competence in three major areas: Technical; professional; and personal. It was also insightful for me that the module encourages instructors to find their own style/battle rhythm and seek out continuing education opportunities. Just as we share with our students, we need to be lifelong learners. I also enjoyed the Harvard video about motivation and passion. Purpose + Passion= Success that lasts :)
Comment on Shayna Sykes's post: Oh that's for sure. Great input! Because how can I discuss what happens to me after work to my student who may not even patronize the style of life I choose to live for example. Pal's can definitely stay out the classroom.
From these passages I've learned that what you bring to the table has both strengths and weaknesses. I've learned that there are many resources including my colleagues to access great teaching strategies to become a better educator, model, and over professional at what I do with my classroom. So the horizon is nonetheless very bright for the future that this career can breath into my life.
I learned that through professionalism I can sharpen my classroom roles as manager, model, and motivator. I also learned I will not be the smartest individual in the classroom and trying to prove otherwise would be a mistake.
I have learned that you need to be able to pivot with your teaching methods and ideas to be able to effectively allow the students to learn in the most effective way. I will apply it by being open to ideas and suggestions from the students and other faculty.
Professionalism is key in running your class and whatever you give out will be watched carefully either bad or good. Remember to also have the compassion for your subject your teaching as you do for your students.
I like the process of evaluating your past instructors, both good and "bad" in a way that looks at their effectiveness. I want to be an effective instructor.
