how should you address your students
I always wanted to know is it regional or is nationally accepted to address students by their first name or last name?
I agree that the students should be addressed by their last names. The correct usage, however, should be Mr. or Ms.
I use the students first name. It made for a less formal classroom and encouraged interaction between students. I allowed students to use either my first name or last however they felt more comfortable. Most used my last name.
Always be respectful, since you want then to respect you, again example is the best teach.
It all depends on your work place and guidelines. As a rule of thumb I addressed students by the first and last name that they register under.
Hi Asheya,
Good point. You are helping your students to become professionals in your field so the more you can coach and encourage them the better prepared they will be.
Gary
I find myself addressing students as "Mr." or "Ms." because they do not address by first name. I think it establishing a level of respect to and for the student. I actually prefer addressing students by their last name, it gives a more professional connection.
Student should be address by their first and last name.
Hi Susan,
True. You the instructor have to find your instructional style and comfort level with your students and your institution. Also, you need to base your professionalism on what the expectations are of your field as well.
Gary
I believe which every way to make yourself and the student feel comfortable is the best option. My educational institution recommends that the student address instructors by their last names. Most of my students do use that approach and others call me by my first name. I do not have a problem with that and allow it. So what is comfortable for you and your students should be the recommended and encouraged.
Hi Linda,
How to address students is a personal choice for instructors so each instructor has to find his/her comfort zone on this. The key is to get them settled into the course and feeling welcome.
Gary
I personally think its important to refer to them by their first name as this creates a more comfortable learning environment for them.
Hi Joseph,
I like your approach. This demonstrates respect for the students and sets the tone for your class. You are showing them that professionalism is going to be the theme for the class while they are there. This helps them as you know make the transition into the real world where they are going to have to earn their success, it won't be given.
Gary
At our school, most students are addressed by first name. But for me, I am retired Navy, I address usually by Mr. and Miss Last name.... the students seem to like that.
I ask them how they would like to be addressed (usually they prefer first names). I also tell them how they are to address me (I accept either first name or Ms. Templeton, whichever they are more comfortable with). The younger students are more comfortable with first names; the older students have grown up addressing teachers by last names usually.
It would really depend on where and what kind of learning facility you are working at.
