Robert,
Yes, if we don't provide expectations, either verabally or written, or in our actions, students will come up with their own. Effort towards prepardness demonstrates one part of being a good role model, and as such, conveying expectations.
Barry Westling
"I beleive that it presents a professional image to the students."
I agree with the importance of this concept. I feel that our students want to learn and want to be taught. Organization is key in the culinary field especially when running larger operations such as professional kitchens or restaurants therefore in a teaching position, organization and preparedness by the intsructor only fuels that willingness to learn from the student.
In the beginning of the class, it sets a tone for the students to 1.) know that the instructor is serious and knowledgeable about the class, and 2.) be organized, prepared, on time, and so on. Once the students realize that the instructor is organized and prepared for each class, they will (hopefully) emulate that behavior and understand how important it is to be prepared and organized -- not just for class but beyond that and into the real world.
I like to have my presentation organized and be the first one in the classroom. I beleive that it presents a professional image to the students. It also is a way to communicate to the students that you are ready to begin on time and expect them to be on time also.
Chakita,
Right. We can inspire students by our professional display of prepardeness.
Barry Westling
As an instructor we are examples for the students how can we expect them to be prepared for class and ready to learn if we are not organized and ready to teach.
Kyle,
Students notice little things. I think whenever possible, I try to be in the class before any students arrive. This gives a chance to answer questions, or just chat and relate. When students see a well prepared classroom, materials assembled, resources ready, and the teacher waiting to go, that conveys a strong message.
Barry Westling
Nothing is more annoying and an unorganized instructor. If I am there on time, you should be. If I am expected to be prepared, so should you. This is the way I think before I enter the classroom. Once I'm in the room, I am set to go and ready to teach. Mistakes may be made but we will move on.
Darcy,
Yes, we are role models and also employees. It is only natural that we would need to be fully prepared for something we're being paid to do.
Barry Westling
Darcy,
Current and competent sends a strong message to students that the instructor is in charge and is capable of leading them towards mastery of the subject. Perception and reality may vary, so being optimally prepared is crucial to portraying the instructors ability to impart needed information in a meaningful way.
Barry Westling
Instructors are role models for students. Being prepared will aid the instructor in the flow of the class to gage how the content should be presented
Instructors need to be prepared and current with the subject mater they are to teach so they can help students understand the concepts
Christina-Rose,
Time is the enemy of us all. You're right, working smart by careful time planning is essential for effective instruction.
Barry Westling
We are often faced with the feeling of having more material to share than time to do it in. Keeping yourself organized and prepared allows you to use every minute of instruction time. The students see this and have more respect for their education as well.
Lisa,
Yes, indeed. Students expect their instructors to be on top of all aspects of the class, almost perfect. We know that's not a reality, but we certainly owe them our time and effort to be ready for class, to be available, to listen, to be patient, and to be knowledgeable in our area of expertise. Also, we are being paid to be ready and prepared!
Barry Westling
I think it gives the students confidence in the instructor. It portrays readiness for the class and student questions. It shows professionalism and confidence. It also shows that you know what you're doing, giving the students the confidence that you know what you are doing, and you are the right person to be instructing that class.
Vincent,
Yes, and as a good role model, students are more likely to take their studies seriously and come prepared, based on our example. I think trust and respect are enhanced when the instructor is fully prepared from the moment students arrive until we dismiss them.
Barry Westling
It has many advantages. The most important in my opinion, is it shows the students professionalism. I find it difficult to enforce guidelines and teach timeliness, if I haven't prepared myself. If they see you are prepared, it gives them a sense of what to strive for.
James,
Great! When students see this kind of preparation, they know you are ready (...and so should they).
Barry Westling
I insure that all my course notes and media are up to date. While there have been 'glitches' (publisher product issues), my students know and expect me to be ready. I come in early and prep the classroom for the day, notes open, binder set up, ppt launched, video ready.
If there is a problem, then I just take the hit and keep going. The students know when it's beyond my control. This is not an excuse though, we must be ready with Plan B, C, D, etc at all times.
