I like the idea of making notes during/after class to be able to fix the mistakes I made or to have notes that remind me of what went well and what did not go so well.
The first time I was in front of a class as an instructor was not really hard except trying to make sure I was explaining what they needed to do to become a Professional Automotive Technician, I was trying to not talk over their heads.
maintain confidence in the lesson plan and don't overthink preparation.
As a new instructor, I should not let the students know that.
Taking the time to over prepare and to practice can help in a way of shortening the time that you had originally thought you were going to be speaking.
I learned that if the instructor takes notes on what was successful or not so successful with students will help the next time a topic is presented.
The best lessons are learned in times of strife than in times of plenty. Nothing goes perfectly the first time. Learn and prepare to go on.
Coming to class prepared - and learning from mistakes I ve made --learning to move on and make note of what better to do next time.
Also, learning how to handle the "silent student" in a way that wont embarrass them and help them in whatever challenges they may be facing
I am not good with names until I interact more with the students.
This module is a great reminder that instructors are human and have insecurities as well. However it is important to not let those insecurities get in our way of teaching.
We cannot expect to be perfect or have the perfect class. Preparation and planning will help with these common mistakes
Sometimes I have difficulty remembering student names - especially with larger classes of 20 or more plus now they wear masks. This module has great tips about connecting with students.
I have learned that I am only human. I keep 11 weeks of lesson plans, that helps me stay on track.
Laughing at yourself if you make a mistake; over prepare for the first few classes. Stay organized and get in to a rhythm. Set clear expectations on day 1. Dress professionally and smile.
The tip for making notecaards to place on stduents desks was so helpful. I do this for large classes - write the student name and then place the card in front of the student. Usually by the end of the first class I have their name memorized :)
Common Instructor Mistakes:
The most important thing about instructor mistakes, is that we are human & mistakes will happen. Be sure to not dwell on them, but learn from them. Use humor to explain how it occurred & talk about correcting it. Be real with my students. Be sure to “Laugh at myself”.
Things to keep in mind are:
- Create a positive instructor image. Be sure to reflect an image of a professional who is successful in industry, as the students are striving for this as well. Show care in them. Do not share personal issues, or compare theirs to yours.
- Manage the class. Be sure to establish a routine & set a procedure for class. Be in charge, be sure to remember student names as soon as possible & establish the rapport the 1st day of class.
- Avoid new instructor worries. Be sure to be prepared, don’t be afraid to ask for help, strive for organization.
- Be sure to strive for solutions !! Make note of mistakes, & review them the next time you teach it to build from those mistakes, & not repeat them.
It is important to have confidence as an instructor, but also to learn your own faults and continue to work on them and improve them to better yourself as an educator.
Be organized and prepared for class. Don't disclose that you are new to teaching, instead focus on your expertise and years of experience in the subject you are teaching.
I appreciate the "over-prepare" suggestion. I wish I had known that going into my first semester of teaching! The Bermuda Triangle of instruction was something I struggled with, but as I grew more confident in my teaching and curriculum, I noticed it tended to be the opposite of an issue, where lessons went over time instead of under. Finding the balance is certainly key! The section about instructor image was a nice refresher, and always good to remember.
Instructor mistakes can be minimized by using humor, promoting a professional image, being prepared, organized and dedicated. Taking notes to assist with learning the students names also helps. I have made mistakes with students names.
