main stress as a new instructor
As discuss in the module, I faced the stress of not having experience teaching classes in a classroom setting. My main stress factor as a new instructor was that I expected far more from my students then they did for them-selves. I wanted them to care for my class as much as I did. It my have been too idealistic for me to think that way, but I have been a passionate instructor and student. It was hard for me to realize that for some of my students even after all my hard work to make the interested in the subject the hardest they would push would be for passing grade. The way I relieved my self from that was to realize (as a good friend told me) that I can not be responsible for other people’s thoughts, feelings, and views. The only ones I can control are mine. That has relieved stress from many situations. Such as friends and family members feeling neglected, etc.
I also had that same problem as a new instructor. I think my getting to know your students better you are able interact with the students more and in turn, they become more passionate about their work.
This is true. Every student is different and has different passion points. Finding those passions and leveraging them can significantly enhance the learning experience.
When I began teaching I found that my undue stress was my fault. I had a passion for the studies, but not all students have the same passion. I found by getting to know their background better helped me to interact the two and the passion came about.
That's a great approach Amy. As we move up in our organizations, it's easy to lose sight of what our more junior level roles used to be like. Keeping our experiences in mind is the key to effectively managing junior level employees.
As the department chair I always try to remember what it was like to teach for the first time and really work to help make my instructors comfortable.
Hi Fatima,
That is incredibly stressful. At my school, student retention is a constant banner and they do place that responsibility on the instructors. It is a great stress to have students who half-heartedly participate (they don't even use spell-check!!!) and then drop out. It reflects negatively on me as an instructor. What frustration to have your efforts and interventions ignored, then to be reprimanded for it! I think your friend’s advice is sound and something I need to tell myself daily. Thank you.
It sounds like you have adopted a good new outlook Fatima. I understand how frustrating it can be when students fail themselves by not properly engaging in our course content. As instructors, we try so hard to ensure that our students will be successful, but we cannot do everything for them. We create environments that foster their success. But it takes their interest and effort to achieve that success.
