Common Instructor Mistakes | Origin: ED104
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
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.
This module helped me recognize how essential it is to approach student behavior with intentionality and professionalism. I’ve come to understand that every situation whether it involves a withdrawn student, one expressing frustration, or even one acting dishonestly it carries its own complexities and deserves a response grounded in empathy, fairness, and respect. What resonated with me most was the emphasis on pausing to listen before reacting. I realized how much this simple act can diffuse tension, open the door to understanding, and ultimately create a more supportive environment for both the student and the class as a whole.
Teachers need to be prepared and professional, but teachers are human. We all make mistakes. Don't be afraid to admit you have made a mistake. My students love to catch me making a mistake. We have fun with it, learn, and move on. They are more receptive to correction and/or constructive criticism when they know the teacher is human.
Faculty start out very objective...worried about crossing t's and dotting i's....but the reason you hired them was their personality and their expertise. It is tough for new faculty to be themselves....but it is truly necessary.
The importance of preparation is reinforced in this module. I am challenged to be better prepared for all my courses.
Great advice on reaching out to other instructors for help. I have used humor many times when a student points out an error or mistake.
I learned from this module is that instructors worry about things that never occur and to laugh at your mistakes to show students that you are human, makes notes to resolve and find resolutions to the mistake, not to take up class time making the same mistakes in the next class. Teachers must also learn every students' name to show respect and value for them being in the your class. You will do things well by first doing things poorly and wrong to proceed to right and well. People need coaching, training and feedback.
From this module, I’ve learned how important it is to address student behavior thoughtfully and with professionalism. Each situation—whether it’s a quiet, disengaged student or one showing frustration or dishonesty—requires a balanced approach grounded in respect, fairness, and empathy. I found it especially valuable to learn how listening first and responding calmly can diffuse tension and lead to better outcomes for both the student and the class
mistakes happen, learn from them and move on.
From this module, I learned that even well-intentioned instructors can make mistakes that negatively impact student engagement and learning. Some common issues include unclear expectations, inconsistent feedback, not checking for understanding, and failing to adapt instruction to different learning styles.
I plan to apply this learning by being more intentional about clear communication, active student engagement, and consistent follow-up. In my Electrical Technology class, I will make sure instructions are not only verbal but also written and visually displayed. I will also check for understanding more frequently through quick demonstrations, formative assessments, and student reflections.
Additionally, I’ll focus on maintaining a positive classroom culture, correcting mistakes in a constructive way and encouraging students to take ownership of their learning. By avoiding these common instructor errors, I can create a more supportive, structured, and productive environment for my students
Prepare twice the material that you think you need for a class, so that you will be adequately prepared and not stressed and feeling disorganized. Students will respect that you are prepared and ready to teach.
Comment on Jan Bennett's post: I tell my students all the time, we learn more from our mistakes than all the things we do right just going through the mechanics of life in general.
We all make mistakes. I let my students know that we are all in this learning thing together. Sometimes I say something backwards, and laugh, and quickly correct myself. My students know that I'm like them, human.
laugh at your mistakes. but dont let that discredit your skills and knowledge
Use humor, and mistakes are going to happen, learn from them!
Teachers need to be prepared, organized, and dedicated, as this will cause the students to settle quickly. Write down your mistakes and how they were resolved, so you don't make the same mistake again.
Mistakes can happen; important to own up to the mistake and can use humor!
Address a mistake with humor so your students see you as a real person.
Being prepared and organized are important in running a class.
Always admit when I'm wrong and make it a teachable time. Students need to be able to see that even as a professional we can make mistakes but how we handle it is what makes the difference.
