Sandy,
Lab is cool because we get to "do what we do" and assist students in our proficiency's. Describing and discussing is important, but hands on is where most students get to apply the theory.
Barry Westling
I am the type that prefers more of a hands-on approach to instruction that's why I prefer my lab classes over the lecture classes. My personality tends to be a little less extroverted, so lecturing is not my favorite thing to do, but I'm practicing. But since I am very detail-oriented, students have commented that they enjoy my lab classes and they learn a lot.
Jerome,
Great! Students appreciate enthusiasm and an upbeat persona. This helps students feel they can ask questions, and approach their instructor with difficulties. Also, students are more apt to model this same behavior when it comes across in a positive manner.
Barry Westling
Ellen,
We all have our personalities, and I agree that a in-genuine or forced version of ourselves is not received well. But traits, that all can do in their own way, keep classes effective. Among these are being friendly and approachable, patient, tolerent, upbeat in delivery, taking an interest in students, and not taking oneself too seriously.
Barry Westling
Using my outgoing personality to put students as ease from the moment we meet helps set the stage for the days that follow. An instructor and students sence of humer also helps releave some of the stress of a new school environment. I want create an interactive environment between student and instructor from day one.
I think your personality has a lot to do with how your prefer to teach. For instance I tend to be introverted so I would not be jumping around or apt to try new activities. When I see my fellow teachers doing those activities I even get a bit envious but if I try it comes off as fake or forced so I try to find ways that match how I am. I do have to be careful not to be too dry and boring because my personality is not very bubbly. It also depends on what the subject is, some I am more excited about and students can tell what I REALLY like and what I am just competent in.
John,
Great. Students usually respond well to life experiences and stories. These create mental images that can place the student in the moment, and are a great way to reinforce course material.
Barry Westling
I use my life experiances and the way I handled myself in these experinces to teach my students in hopes that they will understand how important attitude are in the work place.
Jonathan,
I've found students like stories, and as long as there is an applicable point, stories are a great way to convey course information.
Barry Westling
I am a very organized person, so my typical lesson plan is organized. In addition, I like to explore other topics that relate to the lesson plan while I am teaching, whether it is a "war story" or an anecdote that relates to the lesson.
Sue,
Being approachable is such an important attribute. It includes elements of patience, tolerance, and supportive encouragement. In classes I've had, that's the kind of instructor I've enjoyed and it makes all the difference in terms of being engaged in the class.
Barry Westling
Stephanie,
This activity contributes to keeping students alert and focused. Too many slides, too much information on a slide, or too long of a sustained period viewing slides begins to lose students. I think variety in the delivery of course information makes for more interesting classes, usually with better outcomes, too.
Barry Westling
My personality comes across as approachable to the students. I have a very animated delivery and facial expressions or so I am told that the students say keeps them paying attention because they can tell that I am actually really into the lecture and not just reading a powerpoint presentation word for word.
I Like the structure of power point as I am very organized. However, I also like flip charts as I can go back and add thoughts, or tear the pages off and hang them around the room if needed. I am also a "mover" and spreading out the information to create groups or relate certain visible points to one another is often helpful.
David,
Right, being approachable is essential for students to feel comfortable asking questions and seeking assistance. Sincerity, patience, and having a good sense of humor can positively contribute to good connections with students.
Barry Westling
A huge part. The instructor needs ot be engaging and informative. He needs to "get" his students and they need to "get" him.
Rae Lynne,
Sounds like you've got a good handle on your personal instructional style. It IS important to be as relatable to our students as possible. To reach them, they have to have a degree of openness to us.
Barry Westling
This point is VERY important, in my opinion and experience. Especially if students know the instructor well, they immediately know if the individual is out or his/her element. I once tried changing up my teaching style significantly and trying a new approach for something new -- being more serious and formal with my students -- and they immediately picked up on the difference and were NOT at all happy with the situation. They said it actually distracted them because they could tell I was not comfortable. I am VERY organized and always have a plan for my classes; however, at the same time I am very flexible and move at the pace the class is ready to move at. I work in a LOT of current events and application exercises and encourage my students to bring in materials they see/hear as well that is on topic and we will discuss. My personality in the classroom is definitely application based and I give my students a LOT of opportunity to apply their knowledge, share experiences, and learn throughout these discussions/activities.
Terry,
I believe any environment where there is positive energy, passion, enthusiasm, and lively activity will naturally draw students into that setting. When we create a setting students want to be a part of, they will be more receptive to our instructional goals.
Barry Westling
who wants to try to engage with someone who appears boring and un enthusiastic. have some energy
