Instructional Professionalism involves making sure that the final outcome (student learning) is obtained. Just like a professional manager, the instructor needs to ensure all of the processes are working (and make changes when they are not). This involves the course materials, material delivery methods and evaluations. As the course stated, the professionalism in the course should duplicate the professionalism expected in industry.
Jim
Instructional professionalism requires an understanding of my subject matter, as well as my professional decorum (the way I dress, talk, interact with students, etc.), and my roles as a model, manager, and motivator for my students. My professionalism shines through when I work with my students to model the professionalism I expect from them, in terms of the way they conduct themselves, meet deadlines, etc. My role as a manager helps them to stay on task and meet these deadlines. I work with them as a motivator to keep them feeling strong and determined to complete what is asked of them so they can reach their goals and dreams that they have longed for and are working to achieve in their adult education.
I would define instructional professionalism as the integrity of the instructor to utilize their personal and professional talents and skills in the classroom, while being passionate about the learning process as evident in his/her instruction, and continuing to enhance their skills and knowledge outside of the classroom to maximize student knowledge retention.
Hello Lawrence: Your comments are spot-on. Mutual respect is very important when dealing with all learners, but especially adult learners who've been around the block a few times. They bring to the classroom a rich array of "real-world" experiences that enhances the "book learning" discussed in the classroom. It's not uncommon to meet professionals with as much--if not more--knowledge as I have on the topic. What separates us is the academic credential which is why they're in the classroom. And expectations must be clear and precise so there are no gray areas which lead to misunderstandings. In the final analysis, if we treat others like we want to be treated, things usually work out for all of us.
Hi Lawrence,
You have captured the essence of what teaching adults is all about. By laying out the areas that you have it will be clear to the students exactly what it takes for success in the course. This will really help to get them engaged in the learning process.
Gary
Instructional professionalism for me is how I deliver my lectures.
Dealing with adult learners, I feel that mutual respect is a key element in professionalism. I try to create an environment for scholarship, academic inquiry, and efficiency- by modeling these behaviors and being very specific with my students on expectations their work and behavior.
Hi Vicki,
Good to hear about the module information and thank you for the 3 F's. A fair, fun and firm instructor is what the students should expect and get when they sign up for a course. By using the 3 F's class management and knowledge acquisition will be enhanced.
Gary
This first module was excellent and I learned from it. I've been teaching adult learners at the college level for 20+ years and I'm now teaching online. It's not uncommon to find students who have as much--if not more--expertise in the field as I have. However, they don't have the academic credentials to be facilitating the class as I have. That's what separates us and I'm not above asking their opinions are asking them to share their experiences. (But with that, I'm still the one managing the class). I enjoyed learning about the 5 C's in this module and I'd like to add 3 F's that have worked for me and they are: to be Fair, to be Fun, and to be Firm.
Instructors need to respond quickly and throughly to student's questions! They should answer questions clearly and ensure understanding. Grading should be completed in a timely manner, of course instructors shold be polite and couteous but firm with their classes.
Ed
Hi Brian,
You have done a great job of defining professionalism from a number of different perspectives. Preparation and consistency are critical to how we are perceived as professionals as well as how we manage our classes. Being an instructor is a great opportunity to impact lives and we need to do all that we can to make sure with live up to the standards of our profession.
Gary
I believe that instructional professionalism is based on a few different factors. Most of these were mentioned during unit one of our course.
The most important aspect of a professional instructor is the ability to model and demonstrate integrity to students. This means the instructor must always respond in the same manner, treating every student with the exact level of dignity and fairness that they are entitled to. By clearly establishing grading expectations and timelines at the start of the course, the instructor can both set the standard and apply it when necessary. This means that late penalties are always assessed when applicable. Additionally, the professor takes the time to respond to questions and gives timely feedback on the assignments in the course.
Other aspects of a professional instructor are visibility to the students in forums or classrooms, and timeliness.
Finally, a professional instructor, like a professional athlete, should be a rock-star in their field, and therefore able to relate the material to the students in many different ways to accommodate diverse learning styles.
Hi Ming-Ning,
Good list for providing support to students. You have covered the cognitive and social aspects of instruction and it is important that both be a part of the delivery process.
Gary
I believe the following elements are important to demonstrate and maintain the instructional professionalism in adult education:
1. Knowledge and real-life experience in the subject matters;
2. Communicate the course expectations clearly and early;
3. Be fair and be consistent in treating all students and grading all assignments.
4. Treat students with respect and show compassion to their personal challenges
5. Take appropriate actions when inappropriate behavior is reported or observed.
To me instructional professionalism is always being prepared for class:know the material and be able to present it in a manor appropriate for different types of learners, act and present yourself in a way that students expect to see in a professional setting, present yourself in way where students feel comfortable to approach you for help or guidence.
Instructional professionalism has many different faces. There is a set or normative behaviors that all instructors should follow; a baseline if you will. However, instructors must consider the groups makeup and tailor his or her self to regional, gender and cultural nuisances. Showing up at the beach retreat for Google employees (known to be a freelance, laid back work force) with a business suit and tie may create a barrier to a level of effective connectives needed to relay your message.
I would define Instructional Professionalism as an atribute we all should strive for in helping students learn. This atribute would include being a model for the students, not only in appearance, but in technical competence, compassion, and leadership. Also included would be good management and the ability to motivate the students to reach their potential.
I define instructional professionalism as the educator with the highest quality of ethics, delivery method, presentation, subject matter while still being approachable by their students.
To me, instructional professionalism involves being prepared and being honest about the material. It also requires dedication and being a motivator.
I define instructional professionalism as appropriate behaviors and actions taken by instructors within the teaching environment. This relates to both the preparation and delivery of the course topic. The instructor must display a high degree of professionalism in their interactions with their students, understanding of the subject matter, classroom management and how they deliver the content to the students. Like any profession, knowledge of the subject matter must be updated to reflect trends and improvements in the subject matter.
- Dr. Emad Rahim
