Instructional Professionalism occurs when the instructor performs the roles of model, manager, and motivator to the best of their abilty....
**Modeling all the skills expected in the workplace (both soft and technical)
**Managing the learning enviornment to facilitate maximum learning
**Motivating each student to achieve their potential.
I would define instructional professionalism to be a window of opportunity. To gather as much information from different sources to accomplish your overall goal.
Instructional Professionalism occurs when the instructor performs the roles of model, manager, and motivator to the best of their abilty....
**Modeling all the skills expected in the workplace (both soft and technical)
**Managing the learning enviornment to facilitate maximum learning
**Motivating each student to achieve their potential.
I feel that Instructional Professionalism starts at the instructor's desk. Professionalism is an acquired ability to maintain a relationship that is appropriate for both the instructor and the student.
I believe a strong and determined attitude is one that shows professionalism. We need to be models, and being a good model requires being sure of ourselves and our surroundings.
Too often I hear Academic Leaders tell their academic team, "Never tell them this is your first time teaching." But, I disagree. I had plenty of professors in a traditional univeristy who had never taught before and ended up being some of the most professional and dedicated during my time in college.
Honesty is key to professionalism and telling lies, even those little "white lies" will get you in trouble later.
Also, never make promises you canno back up later. Students remember the promises you made and will call you out on them.
I define instructional professionalism by being prepared for class having materials ready for the students and having a great attitude and open mind each day. Having respect for the student as humans and being an example of my profession.
Martha,
I think you are on the right track with you thinking and approach. The more attention we call to appearance and preparation the greater the impact will be even if online. Keep reminding the students to be aware of how they present themselves as professionals.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I define instructional professionalism as being the complete package to both employer and students in your classroom. Meeting and exceeding expectation daily, not only when it is time for evaluations. Students do need to see an instructor who is professionally dressed, communicates appropriately, and shows genuine concern for each student, during the class and beyond. I encourage all of my students to return for a visit to my classrooms, holding an eternal open-door policy for my classroom. The students learn early I love my job and the profession they are about to enter. My actions reflect my words. I may be the only constant in some of my student's lives. It is vital to their success that I do not waiver in my professional conduct.
Being on time, dressing correctly, role modeling good behavior, being prepared to present lesson, and knowing your subject matter that you will be teaching.
This module has made me think more abour the role of dress and appearance. I know that when I am in a hospital setting, I carefully notice the attire and grooming of those in charge--the nurses and the doctors. We forget that those in our charge are looking for the same. I'm wondering how we can make that same positive presentation in an online setting. One thing I have done is add a few photos of some flowers growing about the house to show that element of care regarding our environment.
Martha Moore
The ability to understand the material being taught, being able to convey what you know in a way that the students understand, and being able to see if its not.
Instructors are the first people that students see at the start of the term. An instructor must make the first best impression immediatley because there is no second chance.
You should work hard and love what you do however you also need a life outside of teaching and your job.
Instructional Professionalism starts with being a role model for your students and modeling approprite behvior. Also dressing and acting approriately, let the students see we are humans, and using our common sense.
Erik,
Yes, it does. This is why we need to do all we can as we go into the classroom for the first time to be prepared to the best of our ability. Then we need to have an ongoing professional development plan in place throughout our teaching career.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Instuctional professionalism has always had a relevant significance in education field in that it affects the role of the teacher and his or her pedagogy (The way one becomes a teacher), which in return affects the student’s ability to learn effectively.
I would define instructional professionalism in so many ways. First, the minute an instructor steps in the classroom, students create an impression of them--their attire, their walk, their facial expressions, their attitude. Sometimes, I have looked around and have seen the classroom with less than half of the students in attendance and say (without thinking), "where is everyone today?" I now try to only "think" that and instead say, "Thank you for coming to class on time today! I am so glad you are here." As a business instructor and 60+ age, I wear business attire and heels to class. Being in the business/education field over 35 years, I have always worn heels and my health still allows me to do so. Sad, but true, I get "teased" from my fellow instructors about always wearing heels and dressing in business attire. To me, it is instructional professionalism. When teaching classes to medical students, I still dress in business attire, even though I am "allowed" to wear scrubs on certain days. I also believe that being prepared defines instructional professionalism--having well-planned lesson plans, obtainable objectives written on the board, handouts ready, DVD and equipment ready. Using the most of every classtime minute also defines instructional professionalism--starting class on time and finishing on time. Returning assignments in a timely manner gives the students appropriate feedback. To me, knowing that I have done my best every day sums up instructional professionalism.
Being prepared for the actual instruction, including knowing the information, having the ability to relay the information in a variety of ways, and having answers and/or resources readily available are all important parts to instructional professionalism.
As a professional in your field, presenting the instructinal materials to the students depending on the needs of the students.
Taunya,
Simple and powerful. Good point.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
