Patricia Scales

Hi Thomas, I am very friendly with my students, but they know that I am not their friend; they know I am their instructor. I carry myself as their instructor and not their buddy. Patricia

Hi Terry, Some students are very closed minded to certain courses. I have the students make a list on the first day as to how they think the course will help them in their career, and I emphasize it will be grade and everyone has to include something to share other than I do not expect to gain anything, etc. We share the different student lists as well as mine. Students gain buy in immediately from the shared list. Patricia

Hi Mario, A syllabus is definitely the main tool for the first day. Students need to know up front what is expected of them. The syllabus acts as a great reference tool as well. Patricia

Hi Michele, Students really and truly need someone to look up to. They mock a lot of what they see, therefore, we need to set a great example professionally. Patricia

Hi Christina, Boundaries must be established with the student/teacher relationship. A student should never be allowed to cross the line. The relationship should be strictly business. Patricia

Hi Leslie, Yes. Students need to know how the knowledge they will gain in the course will benefit them in their career. Students really do become excited and motivated whenever they understand the practical aspects of things. As educators, we must also remember excitement starts with us. Patricia

Hi Raji, I have found that talking about how much money and the potential for growth in the area really ignite the enthusiasm. I try to talk about money at least once or twice a week. I definitely make mention of money on the first day. You use great approaches to get your students excited. Patricia

Hi Alexis, You are big enough to own up to this as your fault. We get from our students what we expect. The students felt you weren't going to bother with collecting the work, so why should they do it? I am glad you have realized the importance of collecting assignments. Patricia

Hi Casey, What type of alternatives would you offer to a silent student to encourage participation? I've learned that a small group setting generally works well for silent students; they really tend to open up in a smaller setting. Patricia

Hi Alexis, You've mentioned some important points. Preparation is a must in the education profession. At times, as instructors, we must study just like our students in order to be prepared. It is definitely a plus whenever you have activities for all three types of learners; no one is left out. Patricia