Common Instructor Mistakes | Origin: ED104
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Class Management Strategies--> Common Instructor Mistakes
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
Perfection is the enemy of good. When I first got into teaching, an instructor I admired told me "If you're going to teach for thirty years, then teach for thirty years. Don't teach one year thirty times." I am always adjusting my teaching based on new things that I've learned, new approaches that students have shared and the needs of the particular group that I have. What worked great the last three classes may fall flat the fourth time.
I am no stranger to making a math error on the board during a class. If I catch it first, then I invite the students to spot my error. Once they do, we discuss how it can be corrected and what kind of an effect the error would have on the final incorrect answer. If the students catch me, I have them explain why what I did was a mistake. Was it a 2+2=5 arithmetic error? Was it a dropped negative sign? Was it an illegal algebra maneuver? Mistakes are an inevitable part of learning mathematics and I like to be living proof that no matter how long you've practiced or how many years you've taught, no one is immune to making mistakes.
Some common mistakes instructors make especially as new instructor is having perceived assumptions that they are not prepared to instructor, students will not learn from their presentations, will they know the information very well. Well no one is perfect but being prepared for your class lecture is very important and it also said being overly prepared will give you the confidence and allow you to present in a very organized professional manner. If the instructor does he/she homework, prepare, be organized this will aide in success. New instructors shouldn't say that I am a new instructor because first and foremost you have burnt the mid night oil and studied and obtain the higher level of learning by obtaining your degree in education etc. So have confidence and be prepared sometimes as an instructor you are a student reviewing various books, refresing on certain skills or materials you haven't studied in years and then things and subject matters must be researched and updated so there are new technological changes.
Name learning was solved by using name placards. My biggest issue is having so many associated duties, that teaching and course improvements are the last items of my list.
One of the most valuable things I’ve learned is the importance of not being afraid to ask for help or advice. Instructors, by nature, enjoy helping others, and tapping into that support can make a big difference, especially as I continue to grow in my teaching career. I’ve realized that building relationships with instructors across the institution—not just within my own department—can open up new perspectives and resources I might not have considered. Whether it’s learning where to get instructional supplies or discovering new ways to enhance my teaching methods, experienced instructors have a wealth of knowledge to share. I plan to seek out these connections with genuine curiosity and respect, asking thoughtful questions and following through on their suggestions. I’ve learned that when colleagues see you as sincere and committed, they are more likely to invest their time and insight. This approach will not only help me grow as an educator, but also strengthen my role as a collaborative and valued member of the school community.
I've learned to over prepare is ok when instructing a new class, it gives you more content specially if you're a new instructor. Also taking notes about mistakes made in class can help you not make the same mistake in future classes.
Understanding that mistakes are simply that...mistakes.
Its ok to be human making a mistake but it does need to be acknowleged and made right.
Seems to me that it is mostly fear of the unknown and in reality, the unknown doesn't happen most the time.
The problem I have is adjusting from industry to the classroom. I have to stop myself many times and slow down because once your use to doing things you forget that your students have never done what you are demonstrating before.
I will make notes about what worked well and what didn’t so I can avoid what didn’t in the future
It is only human to make mistakes, but it should be handled with humor and dignity.
I think over preparing before teaching a new class is a great way to feel confident.
I've been in this position for 3 1/2 years now and still feel like an impostor. But I move forward every day and do my best to teach.
I like the point made about taking notes of mistakes that I make in order to avoid making the same mistake twice. Notes can be used as a learning tool.
I loved the table showing "right thing" and "wrong thing", done poorly and done well. I think that this is a great way to picture a class and something to even show a class. Especially any class that involves a performance-based skill. There, students really have to feel comfortable going out on a limb and trying to do the right thing poorly in front of everyone in order to improve. This gives a nice framework for things I can do to help students get there.
I never thought about but will now take notes in my book as to what worked and didn't.
Comment on Elaine Thomas's post:
Assumptions are a lot of our mistakes.
Building student/ teacher relationships to help foster positive student behavior.
Comment on Tyann Thomson's post: I agree with your comment.
As a new instructor I was definitely worried more about the students impression of me and not the things that will never happen. I can honestly say I have never been one of the teachers that were listed in the first portion. I do have a good rapport with my students. Enough that they know where I am coming from and have respect for my insight/opinions.
