Students on a First name basis
Do your students feel more empored when you call them by your fist name???
Hi Lawrence,
Good point about valuing a person by remembering their name. This is so important for instructors as you mention and we need to keep this in mind at all times.
Gary
I am always impressed when I meet someone for the first time, introduce myself and then see that person again, possibly days later, and have that person remember my name. It sends a clear message that the person is genuinely interested in you. That builds instant repore and respect. With students, it can be a lasting impression that can motivate the student to reciprocate with others in the same manner.
Hi John-Howard,
This is a topic that has been discussed many times over with no real resolution to be found. The reason is just as you outlined in your comments. Different fields and instructors feel differently about how both instructors and students should be addressed. Each instructor has to find their own comfort zone on this but in doing so realize the consequences of such form of address.
Gary
This is a real hot-button topic -- it would be interesting to see, for example, if there is an age or regional breakdown between those who go for first names, and those who go for last name/title. I happen to be so old-fashioned that I would like to have Queen Victoria back, so I am emphatically in the camp that wants to be acknowldged by my title and my last name. To do otherwise would in my opinion create false camaraderie between student and teacher.
The other side of the coin is how we address the students -- in most 'classical' classroom situations I have experienced, particularly in Graduate School, the honorific prefix and last name was SOP. Interestingly enough, I tend not to call out students based on either their first or last names, but on the full combination of their name. This generates greater clarity about exactly who is being addressed in the class, and also helps me learn student names faster.
Because I started teaching in Grad school, I really struggled with how I wanted my students to address me. The first quarter it was Ms. Block or Professor Block, but it really made me feel uncomfortable. The second quarter I had them address me by my first name, and it felt too relaxed. I was at a state school at the time, and I felt that it did cause a lack of respect. Now that I am at a career college, I give my students the option to address me as they feel most comfortable; Ms. Block, Professor Block, or Michelle. I have found that students from certain cultures are extremely uncomfortable addressing me on a first name basis, but for others they are much more involved in the classroom if they do. I also teach interpersonal relations, so I want them to feel as comfortable in the classroom as possible so they are more willing to participate in sharing.
I feel first names are a great way to build rapport with my class. I also ask them to call me by my first name so they see me as approachable.
Hi Elizabeth,
The key in addressing a professional is how respect for that individual is displayed. If the instructor sets the proper tone for the class and is comfortable with who he/she is then learning will occur.
Gary
I understand the differentiation of the Dr. X vs first name. In some places, that is the general rule and typical practice. To me it makes perfect sense that grad students address their instructor by first name, not only are they more mature but they are becoming members of the same intellectual community. However, in my school we have a split group. Some students are fresh out of high school while others are returning students. Many of our faculty don't have a phd, so the general practice is to use first names. I have found that it doesn't change how instructors are viewed or treated. Modeling professionalism and respect in turn creates professionalism and respect.
With a younger generation of students, I believe that it is ok to call them by their first names, because once they are in the work force, they wont be called by the last names, and most likely not by Mr. or Ms.
I don't really like the whole first name basis. Teachers should be called Mrs. or MR. or Professor depending on the academia. This allows a better distinction, and allows for the level of teacher/student to be emphasized and appreciated. It also helps prevent the friendships that should eb avoided.
Yes, I always use first name basis with students. In math class, in the beginning unit and days, I will have them state an equivalency (1 Cup = 8 fl. oz. etc.),as I go through attendance.
Hi Amie,
Good point. You have to select a title for yourself that fits you and your instructional style. By selecting the way the that you want to be addressed you also set the tone for the class.
Gary
I introduced myself as Dr. Hein. To be honest, I believed that I earned the title and therefore I would prefer to be called that way. Respect is earned depending on how you perform in the classroom and how you treat your students as well.
I do address them by their first name. It makes the classroom environment welcoming, casual and less serious, makes establishing rapport with the students easier.
Hi Steven,
Interesting switch on calling attention to the students when needed. Much like mother using first and middle name when I was in trouble. I got the message loud and clear when she did this.
Gary
Hi John,
The use of student names is a very powerful tool for developing respect and rapport.
Gary
I always call my students out by there last name, unless they are acting unruly. Then I will call them by there first. It seems to hit home a little harder?
I've always believed the old saying that the most important word in any language is someone's name. It can be used for good or for bad, but it is a very powerful tool to know all the students' names and use them in class.
I would love to hear more comments about how students address their instructor. Based on the rest of the comments on this thread, I'm guessing most of you would not approve of being called by your first name.
Based on a concept of generational acceptance, I see this as an "old school" idea. I get the whole "respect" thing but I feel that respect is earned in many ways beyond just the "title" of the "position". I've found that I can maintain respect and "control" of my classes without requiring that they call me "Professor Noble" or "Mr. Noble". And I've heard students speaking very disrespectfully about instructors who require that they be addressed as "Mr. Johnson" (not a real name). I know that this will evoke strong responses and I look forward to hearing them. Game on!
