Hi Annie, Using articulation during your delivery is very important. It doesn't cost a thing to smile, I too smile alot with my students. Smiling lets the students know that you are personable, pleasant, perhaps nice, approachable, nonintimidating, etc. I have always focused on having excellent eye contact as well. Eye contact can let the students know that you are confident. It is nice when you can add practicallity to your courses--it is nothing like saying "been there done that" so to speak. I am sure students enjoy hearing your experiences as an artist and designer. You're right, your work ads credibility to you as an instructor. I am a typing guru, and my students get a chance to observe my typing abilities, and they are in awe. My demonstration adds more credibility to me as an instructor, and it also lets the students believe that they can get to that point as well. It is vitally important to share with students how to overcome challenges. I also have my students introduce themselves on the first day--it is a nice way to ease some of the nervousness and make the students feel more comfortable. Wow you and I are so much alike. In addition, I share good examples as well as bad examples with my students for various projects. I am definitely a hands-on instructor. I learn best by doing, however I use techniques that reach all types of learners. Patricia