I have found that helpful advice from experienced instructors is always helpful when starting out. It is important to find that mentor that has not only good teaching skills but a good rapport with students. You can truly learn a lot from that person. They also become a good resource when dealing with problem students.

I have tried this method with very good results. I will print out the key and as a student finishes the test, I quickly check it over to make sure all answers are filled in, hand them a red pen, and let them grade their own test. They love the instant feedback and I have never had a problem with dishonesty. It also shows them that I trust them which teaches them integrity and ethics.

Nobody is perfect... even instructors can make a mistake. If students ask a question of which we do not know the answer, we should not become defensive and give false answers. Let them know that at that moment we are not familiar with the answer but will get back to them... And please do.

The first offense is served with a warning. Often times, students are just excited to be in the class. If behavior is persistent, immediately escort the student out of the classroom and talk to them in private. Let them know of the consequences of continued behavior. Documentation is very important.

On the first day of class, expectations of the course should be very well defined to the students. Emphasis should be placed on the course requirements for course completion.

In our institution, during the day of the final exams, teachers are required to read to the students a " cheat script". Letting them know of the rules and regulations and the consequences if ever they are caught cheating..

How many people have been entertained (well, not really) by watching a new or newer faculty member go into the classroom and teach for the first time or term? It is almost a bit like a rite-of-passage for new instructors, I have found. Oftentimes, and especially at career colleges where Doctorate Degrees are not always necessary, instructors feel that they are in a "power position" and that they have reached the top and are now "professors." Soon, the reality kicks in and they become human again and make a mistake in the classroom. Either they goof-up a quiz or exam, say something inappropriate, act too arrogant, or realize that they cannot really "teach" to their student's needs or satisfaction. It is like a new manager in a manager's position for the first time; rather, they are managers of a class and feel like they are on Cloud-9. Until.....

I know, this is not the right thing to do in regards to challenging student behaviors; But this is often what is said when "setting an example" is done totally wrong or inappropriately. If you are really really good (and experienced), it can be done both artfully and appropriately and oftentimes, similar difficult behaviors will not be experienced again. However, it is a risk 99% of people should probably not take if they want to avoid doing it wrong. For example, a student wise cracks at something you say. Clearly, this shows disrespect towards you and it undermines you in front of the class. It might be a test- especially for new instructors. What would you do?

teaching in different ways helps tap into different learning styles that students have

I find that most of my procrastination comes from being a perfectionist. It is hard to think of starting a big project without having sufficient time to finish it in whole. Breaking the large project up into smaller "projects" seems to help. So rather than saying "this next three weeks I have to completely redesign the lab", it helps to say "tomorrow I have to get three of the new trainers into the lab and operating properly". It is a subtle trick that seems to help fool me into thinking I got everything done. Although it does not always work, I sometimes do not fall for my trick... :)

Important point about being able to have a sense of humor when one makes a mistake and is called on it and also taking this opportunity to express the correction which can be an encouraging step for the students.

What is the best thing to do when you are not sure of an answer? I get anxiety when this happens and I need some advise on handling the situation. Tiffany

Working over 55 hours per week adds a tremendous amount of stress in my life. To deal with this load of work, I exercise regular and eat a good healthy diet. It helps me in this area of life...having good friends makes a difference too.

Stress is the great killer at work. Try to work responsibly.

Managing your time helps a lot. Try to keep a good perspective about it. Use a scheduler.

Too much stress can be bad for you. Try to balance your life. Don't take it personnal.

I beleive in grading my papers as they are handed in and I assign due dates so they don't pile up and I can keep up with the work load.

I agree with making a to do list. I find that when I make lists and cross off completed tasks that I feel a lot more productive with what I do with my time. I also notice more things getting done an alot less left unfinished.

I like the idea of guest speakers, you do have any ideas for a customer service class?

I am finishing up my first term teaching and I must stay, I had a great time! I feel the hardest part was getting started. I advise new teachers to go into the classwork with confidence and with intentions to bond with the students. Making that bond is critical in a small classroom and the students will appriecate you more. My only concern with my teaching method is that I didn't set strong guidelines from the beginning. I will not do that next term! Make sure that students know that they can not walk all over you!