I learned that the most important thing in the classroom is learning and not necessary teaching. We are the facilitators and subject experts and we have to make sure that our instructional delivery promotes learning. Our role is not to simply read power point slides and talk for hours but to inspire, motivate and lead.
It is important to have technical, professional, and personal competence. But it is paramount for an instructor to model professionalism in all aspects of teaching and relating to students and other faculty. When a student sees faculty gossiping or treating a peer disrespectfully, this professional modeling is broken. I have seen this before, and it causes the students to lose respect for the faculty.
As a professor we really need to model the example for the students so they can be able to engage well and yield the best results in the classroom. Another thing is for them to see our passion. If we don't exude passion or even compassion, this will cause the students to become demotivated. This will cause failure and that is only a reflection on us. We need to be their motivator. Once we are happy, they are happy.
Comment on Christina Perry's post:
I love this concept too, Christina. In my former teaching position, one of the most frequent comments was that I was real. Without saying too much, students appreciate knowing that we as faculty also have to manage challenges and that we are not pretending to be perfect individuals with everything in perfect order.
Comment on Ivan Phipps's post:
Ivan, I also appreciated these points. The longer I teach, the more I realize it is not about me but about those I am involved with.
Comment on Michelle DeJong's post:
So far in ED 101 I have particularly appreciated the distinction between friend and pal. I have seen detrimental outcomes from instructors trying to be "pals".
Another aspect I appreciate is the importance to remind students how far they have come. I understand more how encouraging this is, especially to students on the fast track who are in survival mode.
Lead by example and remember to open doors and not close them!
Leading by example is the biggest take away for me from this section. I try my best to come in energetic & professional ready to teach!
Don't try to impress your students with your knowledge. Help your students develop their own knowledge instead.
lead by example and use the materials surrounding you to improve your skills!
Being professional in the education world is important because it sets the tone for your students and for them to have that model or guide to what professionalism looks like.
Professionalism and instructor readiness
Teachers need to be show professionalism and lead by example. This will allow for development in your students and yourself.
To be aware that you are being watched by your students and you need to present yourself in a professional manner. Also, you can be friendly with your students but don't be their "pal".
I have always thought it important to treat all students professionally, with respect. Never have a ego, always be humble, and project confidence that the student can accomplish the tasks required.
The classroom has to be an environment that the student relishes to be in. My passion will rub off on the students. Model what professionalism conduct looks like. Get them to see that professionalism is a mindset that can be transferred to many different occupations.
We all make mistakes. Admit it and move on; to dwell on the mistake will only allow it to grow bigger.
The knowledge and delivery of subject matter is key.
As you develop as a leader, you need to develop your skills as a model, manager, and motivator for your students. A combination of all three is required but how much depends on your students in the courses.
This module really drilled home the importance of being in the classroom and ready early, so that you can do the small talk then and get right to the teaching when it's time to start.
