Hi Robin: No doubt, preparation is required in order to be the better instructor we all aspire to be. And it takes time and effort, valued commodities these days, but it can't be ignored. Planning ahead, relying on resources available to you, using peers for assistance where applicable, and even having students assist with some of your clerical kind of work like making copies, sorting and collalating, stuff like that. Of course, not on the day you need it, but for a future class. The old adage, "work smarter, not harder" seems to be applicable here. Being prepared makes for a more relaxed classrom experience for all, and when the teacher is able to smoothly transition from topic to topic, resources prepared and ready, media and teaching aids available at the time they're needed - this conveys preparation preceded the class. Also, when we're prepared, we are more available to our students without them feeling like they're bothering us or interrupting. This conveys both confidence by the instructor, and demonstrates competence to the students, who will respect and pay attention when the know their teacher is in control through preparation. Regards, Barry