Prepare
Having all the classroom content organized I think is a must. There are plenty of instructors that just dont understand that. They don't care for the classes or maybe they don't understand the content. But in the lab they are fine. Maybe they should spend a little more time before class getting ready. I think you should be there and ready well before your students. You are then ready to teach your class and they know that.
David,
Everyone seems to to better when there is a plan of action. Appropriate preparation assures that plan (or something close) will be achieved.
Barry Westling
You are currect in beung prepared for class. When you are ready for class things flow so much better for you and the class and they know when you just run into class and start without being prepared They also know when you and the class are ready for them.
Craig,
True. These are the instructors who consitently receive the best student ratings and evaluations. The best thing about instructors like these is they set their own threshold for perfomance (required or not), and if it's helpful to students, will be received well and, as you suggest, may be reciprocated by students.
Barry Westling
Students are well aware of instructors who go beyond their job description and I believe they, the students, will strive to do their best for that instructor
Craig,
There is little that can match the environment created by an enthusiastic, confident, and interesting instructor. Being approachable and open to helping or assisting students makes for smooth class sessions. When students see preparation and organization, that builds trust and respect - both ways. So, it's really quite advantageous for instructors to "do their job", which of course is well beyond what appears on the surface.
Barry Westling
teaching is much less of a "job" and more of an enjoyable experience when you are prepared, organized, and enthusiastic. Students pick up the vibes of the instructor - feed off the instructor, if you will. I prefer teaching to be an enjoyable experience than just a "job".
James you are by far my favorite classroom instructor but it is nice to have ya back in the lab!
Craig,
Ready is what we are paid for too. Classes run smoother, students learn better when we are prepared and organized with our materials.
Barry Westling
James,
Right! Student can sense when a teacher is prepared, taken time prior to class to get ready, and is set to begin a relevant, thorough lesson for the day. And as you imply, that doesen't happen automatically. It takes time, effort, palnning, and careful consideration about how best to conduct the class. And getting the resources readied prior to class shows students they need to be prepared too.
Barry Westling
being prepared is the keystone of teaching. Why will the students care if you don't? You need to be ready for any and all questions you will receive from students pertaining to the subject matter. Students will know pretty early in the course if you are prepared or not - and if you care or not
