Hi Thomas:
Yes, we can be good (or poor) role models as demonstrated by our actions each day. By being consistent, by the end of the course, the students will have a framework from which to build on for future classes or work settings.
Organized reflects planning, and students will notice when that has not occurred. Preparation reflects time and effort, and students will notice right away when the teacher has prepared well for their class - and appreciate it.
Regards, Barry
Hi Kevin:
Yeah, we really have to be aggressive in our approach to being prepared. I think we're all hired because of our expertise, gained from education, training, and experience. From that we have to take the curriculum and have to make it come alive, which can only be accomplished if we know what we're talking about. Our students need to see us as the experts, which will occur with good organization and preparation. The opposite opinion is likely when we haven't done all we can to prepare.
Regards, Barry
Students expect organization. If you aren't organized you can't expect them to adhere to the flow of your syllabus and deliver assignments when they come due.
Being prepared to teach is a must. Every student in the class -- whether they have read the material over three times and have two challenging questions for you OR they haven't done much more than skim the readings at lunch --must leave the class that day and be able to say "Wow -- that instructor really knows his/her stuff!"
It is important tosend the right message to the students each and every time. Being organized and prepared to teach says that I am a professional and I care about you and about the quality of our time together. This also models the desired behavior I want from them.
Terri:
Students do form opinions, often quickly (fairly or not), and that opinion colors how they will approach the class in general. Now, I think we can be prepared but lousy at delivery, which is similar, but a different topic.
But if the teacher plans the lesson well, gets the resources and materials ready, assures media resources are available (classroom ready, internet working, LCD operable), books accessible, white board clean, etc., these set the tone for a well delivered class. Students will learn to expect that's the expectation for the class and will prepare appropriately.
Regards, Barry
Hi Scott:
Yes, these needs will contribute to an organized class. Of course, we'd not be very organized if we didn't take the time and effort to acquire the resources, prepare the lessons, organize the material, get the lecture ready, make the appropriate media choices, and be in class early every day to set up the classrfoom and be available for students to ask questions, or jus visit and buid a connection.
Regards, Barry
Bruno:
Right. We can demonstrate what being organized and prepared looks like a little bit each day. By the end of the course, they'll have a good role model to refer back to.
Regards, Barry
Eric:
I agree with you. When the class appears orderly and organized it sets a tone that the class and the material to be covered is important and the students will need to pay attention and take it seriously.
Too rigid can alienate students. But there's no reason we can't provide an organized class, and be approachable, friendly and helpful, patient, couteous, and giving (and receiving) respect. If students feel we care about their success, they will pay attention and follow the rules of the class.
Regards, Barry
Students pay attention if an instructor is not prepared, and develop an opinion automatically if a you are constantly looking for you material.
I here students speak about other instructors all the time, when they had them in class, that she never seemed to know the material or have the material ready to get started with the discussion. If the instructor is prepared, they have more confidence in what they are being taught.
Hi Gearard:
When students feel the class is organized and the teacher prepared, it will run smoothly, reduce anxiety and build confidence in the instructor, and students are more likey to trust the information given by the instructor. Communication is best when the teacher is natural and is bgeing themselves.
Regards, Barry
Amy:
I think students sense when the teacher is prepared, and it does convey a sense of confidence in the instructor. Students have to trust their instructor knows the material. When course are planned out, and the class moves smoothly, that environment contributes to the motivation for the student to also try their best.
Regards, Barry
Hi Joyce:
A good plan is just , a plan. We may modify or adjust, but through good planning, we should strive to meet the daily goals. Well written classes taught by experienced teachers should be able to accomondate both.
Regards, Barry
Tuan:
Yes, when we are organized with all of the material and resources we need, that does convey the teacher has done their preparation and is ready to provide the best organized lesson, and that will will instill confidence in the teacher by the students.
Regards, Barry
Nancy:
Yes, and the difference is the student may have low expectations for preparation. However, we as teachers, have an obligation to our students, employer, and professions to provide the prepared lessons and instruction we can. That takes time and effort. We have a high standard for preparation that will assure our lessons will be effective, and also serve as role models for how a good class is conducted.
Regards, Barry
Classes are of finite length. The instructor needs to clearly establish what and how much material needs to be covered during a specific time period. While adaptation is always necessary due to student questions and concerns a clear plan facilitates the experience.
Darrell:
First imprtessions are certainly lasting ones aren't they? We do set the tone and expectatations by our degree of preparation.
Regards, Barry
Its education 101, learning objectives for the day. The instructor needs a organized train of thought as well as organized resources in order to teach the student.
Been prepare shows the students respect and class expections. Lead by example.
It is important for an instructor to be organized and prepared to teach in order for the class to run smoothly. If you are unorganized and unprepared the students will take over the class by talking or engaging in something else. It could also cause the students to not take you serious.
Kimberly:
You're right, a well prepared teacher does convey confidence which usually makes the class run a little smoother. Also, students sense the teacher knows what they're talking about and that lends credibility to their knowledge base. Can also contribute to better respect for the teacher (and classmates as well).
Regards, Barry
