Positives & Negatives
I have at least 3 or 4 former instructors who made a huge impact on my own teaching style. One, whom I remember very clearly, I remember for the wrong reasons. Although it was clear he enjoyed the subject matter, he never moved from behind the podium. Now, whenever I walk into a classroom, the first thing I do is take the lectern and move it to the side of the room. If I have passion, the students should see it.
Another I remember because he made us recite lines of plays at the beginning of class, as a group and as individuals. I hated those moments. It scared me to death. But, I still remember the lines! And I try to incorporate that challenging aspect of recitation, only without the fear. How? Well, I always go first!
Tasheema,
I liked your quote (in fact copied it down to use...thank you).
I can understand how your student felt. When I was younger I never envisioned myself teaching (do not like to speak in front of an "audience" or to have "people looking at me"). After many years in the field sharing my passion and knowledge with patients, I found others around me telling me how well I communicated difficult information without talking down to them and asked if I would consider teaching. Hmmmm?!
We need to get out of our comfort zone!
Thanks for sharing.
Tami
Tasheema,
Thank you for sharing this great story. It is examples like this which reinforces why we are teachers. You know only have been able to share content with her but you also helped her in her personal life to overcome her fear of speaking in public. She will be able to use this skill in her community, church, volunteer groups or wherever she might serve in the future.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Great post. I often tell my students, "If it doesn't challenge you, It doesn't change you." I read that somewhere on a billboard. I really believe in challenges that may sometimes be scary. One of my students had a fear of speaking in front of the class. She said it brought back bad memories of 5th grade. Every time she got up to speak she became very red in the face and began to sweat. After several presentations I overheard her encouraging another student to do their best because she overcame her fear. I was really proud of her.
Shawn,
Thank you for these examples of instructors you have had in the past. I think all of us educators have had both very poor and very good instructors that have influenced our perspective on teaching. You have grown and learned from those experience to the point you have created an instructional style that is comfortable for you and supportive for your students. Keep up the good work.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
