Being prepared.
Students know when their instructors are prepared and they appreciate organization. They find comfort in knowing that their instructor is organized and prepared. I have found that having very detailed syllabi and weekly instructions really help students to stay on track. Students like to know what is expected of them.
JanetMarie,
This is also a sign to our students we are professional, mature, serious, and competent in our readiness to share essential material that will lead to solid work opportunities.
Barry Westling
I always tell the students that being prepared is a form of showing respect not only to your students but to fellow instructors . It shows that you know that their time is valuable just as yours is and you don't want to squander it.
Dana,
Yes, when students see that we have taken time, effort, and gathered needed materials and resources, they get the idea that the instructor is serious about their work, and often, this can contribute to improved respect. I think it nearly always results in trust and credibility of the instructor.
Barry Westling
Being prepared is crutial to keeping the respect of the students.
Janice,
I don't remember when I started doing this activity, but it has a very successful tool for me and my students for many years. I started it to assist students, then I became used to making reference to it (almost the reverse of your initial experience). Nonetheless, students benefit by previewing the days activities and if needed, have time to gather their materials to be prepared for upcoming class activity. I keep an eye on where we're at in my plan and this allows me to adjust my instruction to help assure all is covered.
Barry Westling
Good point about students appreciating teacher organization. I have developed a habit of writing down "Mrs. S's To Do List" every class I teach, on the side of my whiteboard. At first I thought this system was just helping me with my classroom time management but so many students commented on how helpful it was for them to have the main activities outlined at the beginning of class. I list attendance, homework review, main lecture focus, group work focus, special activities such as jeopardy exam review, and homework assignment along with any reminders for tests/essays. By using this technique, I stay focused, complete my material, and role model to students one effective method of organizing my time and their time in class.
Johanna,
Journaling provides so many benefits and is really very easy to develop daily (or regular) habits of making quick jots, notes, comments, or observations. What's cool is the reflection after many months or years...how one viewed things, approached situations or dealt with problems (and their solutions). We can learn a lot about ourselves, and that makes us better teachers.
Barry Westling
I agree with you completely. I have noticed the difference of the students when I have been prepard for the week or even day they seem to be more relaxed and when you give them a goal they want to achive that goal.
Gracie,
Great! From a students perspective, it's assumed their instructor will be prepared and ready for class with all needed resources and materials available. Usually, they want to be wowed above what in thier minds is basic readiness. Less than prepared can cause students to lose attention, diminish focus, and possibly even loss of credibility and trust.
Barry Westling
