Planning and Preparation
We as instructors must plan and prepare for our courses; we have to have all our ducks in a row in order for our instructional process to run smoothly. If we set the tone with our class, the students will realize that it is important to come to class prepared as long as they planned to pass the course. Once again, we set the tone from the beginning to the end of our courses. We determine our destiny and outlook of our class.
I totally agree, planning an preparing sets the tone. It also shows our students that we are committed to not only our success in the classroom but theirs as well. If we plan and prepare, our students will plan and prepare as well.
Petya,
I have taught with instructors that did not put the effort into planning as you do. They had problems with their students and managing the class. Through planning comes structure and as a result increased learning. This is a win win for everyone.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I agree that we as instructors have to spend time to prepare for our classes.Based on my personal experience ( 20 years teaching) I cnnot recall even a single time that I have entered a classroom without preparing for the lecture. Usually I read my notes, PowerPoints presentation ant I am trying to add a new article in my field.
The day I am suppose to deliver a lecture , I personally review and revise the subject material and make sure that the most important, relevant and pertinent information gets delivered and known to my students. Also I emphasize and reiterate the materials that will be a source of knowledge for them.
Ramona,
You make a good point. We, instructors come to the class knowing our content. The key is instructional planning to delivery it in a clear and concise manner. This is where our effort needs to be concentrated.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Peter,
You are sending a very powerful message to your students and that is "you know the material". By you being able to reference the students to certain places in the text you are demonstrating to them the value you associate to the content.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I have to agree. Although I am well versed in the course I will be instructing, it is essential that I know the material inside and out. It is important that that the student is confident with my knowledge of the material and my ability to teach the course.
I read all powerpoints and texts for the days course.
I also answer questions at the end of chapters and what page it is found on.
When the student asks about a particular question, I respond by directing them to the book and turn to the page in question, and then we read it together.
Some instructors will just say "look it up" and that will frustrate the student.
But if the instructor looked it up, then they feel that the subject has more meaning.
I definitely agree. It is very important to spend time preparing for the class as well as being very familiar with the subject. If the student can see that you are prepared and understand your expectations of them will be high they will reach it. You set the stage by your actions.
