Patricia Scales

About me

I've been a career educator for over 20 years. I currently serve as the Academic Coordinator for Brookstone College of Business and continue to be active in the classroom as a Business Instructor. My motto is "A student doesn't care how much you know, until they know how much you care." I was honored to receive the Career College Association National Teacher of the Year award in 2001. I just love teaching!

Activity

Patricia Scales

Discussion Comment

Maintaining a professional image

Hi James, Boundaries must be established. I have been teaching for over 21 years, and never allow a student to get too close (personally) to me. Once a student feels a sense of closeness, they can mistaken that as a personal connection. As educators, we must keep everything professional. Patricia

Patricia Scales

Discussion Comment

Involving silent students in class

Hi Linda, I am totally opposite, but I can imagine how this student feels. I try to make small talk with these type of students daily until they become somewhat comfortable with me. Once they are comfortable with you, they will open up. Patricia

Patricia Scales

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Using guest speakers as resources

Hi Dawn, These resources are certainly invaluabe. Studens love having guest speakers. It is good for our students to hear from other experts other than us all the time. Patricia

Patricia Scales

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Identifying challenging students

Hi Gail, I understand. Whenever I have these type students I limit the comments/stories up front. I present the limitations in a very friendly tactful professional manner, which still allows for great participation. Patrica

Patricia Scales

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Showing examples of student work

Hi David, Students really do gain confidence and become motivated once they see an example. Visual learners love being shown an example; it all makes sense once seeing the example. Patricia

Patricia Scales

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Capturing student attention

Hi David, I have used this tactic as well. It generally works. Once they know you are aware that they are not focusing, they tend to perk up.

Patricia Scales

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Showing relevancy of course content

Hi Jack, These are certainly great ways to show course relevancy. I especially like the idea of shadowing. I am sure shadowing helps with placing interns. Patricia

Patricia Scales

Discussion Comment

Maintaining a professional image

Hi Joseph, Professional image certainly makes a distinction. As educators, we must carry ourselves professionally at all times. We are watched. Patricia

Patricia Scales

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Maintaining a professional image

Hi Robert, Great response! I concur. Protect yourself as an instructor and do not let students cross the line into the danger zone. Patricia

Patricia Scales

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Reducing instructor anxiety

Hi Jay, The anxiety level definitely decreases with time. The more you do it, the more comfortable you will become. Preparation plays a vital role in reducing anxiety. Patricia

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