Planning & Preparation Is a Must!
It’s amazing when I see an instructor come into class just minutes before it starts – the students see it – they see the harried – not together instructor about to present to them. These are usually the ones that discuss issues with class room decorum and respect form students.
Hi Matthew,
This is what modeling is all about. The instructor providing the behavior and model from which the students can learn what the expectations are for them.
Gary
I would expect the students to arrive on time for class so that we may start at the given time. Therefore it's my responsibility to arrive early enough to ensure that the classroom, training aids, reference materials, etc. are properly set up and ready to begin the day on time.
I believe being on time to class is essential in gaining respect from my students. I am also a big believer in going over the coursework, especially the assignments, myself before I assign them. I usually try and work through the assignments myself to see how long they take me and if I come across questions. This way, I am prepared for the questions I may receive from my students. My students know I "do my homework" and respect me for it.
Hi Crystal,
Way to bring together all of the different parts of the instructional plan to the benefit of students. Each item contributes in making the learning environment supportive and comfortable.
Gary
I agree. I like to be early for my classes. I write an outline on the board of what we will be doing for that specific class period. This includes homework assignments, quizzes, tests, labs, reading assignments, etc. I feel it gives the student a sense of what we are going to accomplish for the day and what to expect for the next class period. I also like to be a little early for class with my materials so I feel prepared. I think it also gives the students an opportunity to approach me with questions prior to class as well. Especially if you have a student that does better one on one with the instructor instead of raising their hand in front of an entire classroom of students. I also promotes the awareness that I expect them to be on time and pepared for class.
Yes I do not know how they do it, I have been teaching Intro To Computers for about 15 years and I still try to recreate ways and reinvent ways to deliver the lesson; this keeps me fresh and up to date.
Hi Michelle,
One can never plan too much or at least I don't believe so. The results of good and adequate planning is just what you experienced, satisfied students. Keep up the good work and planning.
Gary
I just completed teaching my first class. I found that I felt more comfortable with what I was teaching if I was better prepared for class that evening. Additionally, feedback that I received from my students was that they were impressed as to how organized I was. I attribute that to the planning and preparation I did prior to the class that evening.
Hi Renee,
You now have a lifetime of professional skill upon which you can draw as a result of the excellent instruction you had in your past.
Gary
I was very fortunate to have a preceptor that stressed the importance of planning and prepartion prior to each class regardless of subject familiarity.
Hi Joan,
Plus the stress is much lower. By being prepared you don't have to scramble to come up with something at the last second. By prepared you can focus on the dynamics and needs of the class which enables you to enjoy teaching even more.
Gary
Preparing ahead of time is so helpful for the instructor and class. The objectives and expectaions are presented and clear. The students will take the instructor seriously.
I agree as well, it also shows the students that you really do care enough to be prepared for them.
Hi Dan,
This is another one of those little things that can really help set the stage for developing rapport with students.
Gary
I agree,
being early to class shows students that you care and presents a relaxing atmoshphere
Hi Lori,
Good point. Personally I like to get to the airport early so I can relax a bit at the gate and get settled in. This holds true for my classes as well. Trying to teach while trying to catch my breath is no way to start a class.
Gary
