Faculty Attitude
Just a note, I feel that Faculty and Instructor appearance and attitude is very important in this area as well as in other areas such as student involvement techniques.
There is almost always an understanding of who is in charge in the classroom, however if students feel as though they are a part of the learning process for themselve and for others they are much more likely to participate. Attitude of instructors needs to be inviting and approachable, more like a Qualitive Management Program, where everyone feels they were a part of the final product, in this case, learning.
Hi Mollly - Thanks for your post to the forum. It is indeed a "fine line" but one you seem to have a firm grasp of. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
I agree with attitude of faculty as well. You need to seem approachable in order for the students to interact with you. But it is definately a fine line between being approachable and being "buddy-buddy" with the students - from what I've noticed, especially as a younger instructor.
Even though my classes are usually very hands-on, I make it clear to my students that the techniques I teach are not necessarily right or wrong, but just some of the many techniques used in the field. Once they have mastered the basics, they are free to find out what works for them.
Hi Kristen - Thanks for your post to the forum and a valuable lesson to us all. Information changes so rapidly - we can always be challenged by something newer than what we are presenting. You have a very good approach to this however!
Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
When one of my students challenges the book or me, I ask them to find another source that supports thier claim. I find this to be valuable because it teaches them that their text book is only one of many resources available.
Hi Jennifer- Thanks for your post to the forum. You are so correct - our attitude detrwmines the comfort out students feel in our classrooms. I think we can all remember at least one teacher who made us feel valued and secure. We never forget them! Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
I am in agreement that attitude plays a big role in the classroom. If an instructor appears unapproachable, the student(s) will not feel comfortable asking questions, etc. We must leave our personal issues outside and put on our game face when entering the room. The students need to feel comfortable and know that you are there for them.
I would have to agree with you Charles. Students thrive on a positive attitude from their instructors as well as the delivery of new information as well.
Yes, I find if I start by disagreeing with the book I get some discussion going. I have not gotten anyone to disagree with me at the undergrad level. It is easier to get Masters level engaged that way.
Anyone have pointers for getting students to be more active during class?
This is a good point. I enjoy encouraging my students to challenge stats and facts they hear and bring in counterpoints. As you said, it definitely helps engagement.
I agree with Charles and would like to add that I encourage students to disagree with me and the book. We get many great conversations started by disagreeing with the book.
HI Charles - Thanks for your post. You describe a classroom where active learning thrives- excellent! Best wishes- Susan
