First Meeting
When you are a new teacher taking over someone else students, how do you go about change for the students whom do not want change. Each educator has a different instruction style. Would you prefer the incoming educator adapt to the outgoing educator style or simply have the students adapt?
I agree. The most important thing is to be positive and express to the students how much they are going to learn in the new approach.
Come in with confidence. Students might hate the fact that they have a new teacher, but in the end they will see your plus side also. If it is just a few students then you might want to take them aside one on one and have a talk with them. Explain, “I really hate that your old instructor had to leave the class, however we can continue and do well with each other. If you are confused or need help with my teaching style I will gladly work with you before or after class.†You will show them you are doing your best and you are willing to work with the students.
Alisa,
This is a tough question to answer though it is a commonly asked one. My first response is it all depends on the situation. Take a look at what has been going on in the class to date and see if you are able to continue as the previous instructor did until the class is over. If the students are learning and progressing, even if the rules and operation format is not yours you can continue to "teach out" the course as it is. Then you can start your own class with your own rules, policies and requirements and the students will know how they are to engage in the class from the very beginning.
If there is poor teaching or students are at risk then I think you have to take the situation head on and make the necessary changes to make the learning environment productive for the students, in spite of the complaints from the students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
