New Instructors
I can remeber when I first started teaching and I was very nervous and fidgeting. I tried my best to make sure that the students didn't notice me. I am now comfortable going into a new module and get right down to business.
William,
this is exactly right & helps our students feel less pressure to become the ultimate "masters" of content & also demonstrates the need to be a life-long learner.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I teach basic automotive electrical and I tell every class the same thing, "I don't know it all, (in refering to the field) and that NO ONE will ever know it all in this field.
Donna,
I agree that this is a good idea. Additionally it is a great way to help our students learn how to become good consumers of the information that is available, rather than just believing everything they read or hear.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Donna,
I agree that this is a good idea. Additionally it is a great way to help our students learn how to become good consumers of the information that is available, rather than just believing everything they read or hear.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I think it is important for students to see me using reference material and resources to find answers or solutions. I try to make them part of the process so that they understand that it is okay not to know everything as long as you can think about how to find information which will help you arrive at the answer or solution to the problem or question you are working on.
Dustin,
this is great self-awareness & a great strategy that helps to work through these issues. The key is to be a reflective practitioner.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I remember when I first started teaching, I would fidget with a dry erase marker and stand in one spot. Once I got comfortable the with the teaching aids that I used and if I laid them out in order prior to class, my lecture when on without a hitch. I now teach new classes periodically, so I have to think about what I am doing so I don't get back into the old "rut".
Early in the course I will let the students know that I sometimes get excited about the material being covered and that if I go to fast they can let me know and I'll slow it down or repeat concepts. I know I have this habit, so I try to be aware of it myself but I want the students to also be comfortable with letting me know.
Kim,
excellent point & well stated. I've found it's best to admit that I don't know everything as this fact will quickly be revealed anyway. This also gives the opportunity for all of us to learn together.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Kim,
excellent point & well stated. I've found it's best to admit that I don't know everything as this fact will quickly be revealed anyway. This also gives the opportunity for all of us to learn together.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
When I first started, my PD told me to never let the students think that you didn't know everything. I have always thought that that was giving them very little credit not to mention me, waaay too much. I don't mind being human as long as I am prepared.
Doreen,
yes preparation is the key to a successful class as well as reducing nervousness.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I am also new. still alittle nervous about going into class. I never let the students know that. I prepare for the class the night before and go over the next morning so I know what I am doing
