Preparation is the key, however don't beat yourself up if you make a mistake. Make a not what needs to be corrected and put your plan into action.
I have to echo what has already been said. I really believe that preparation is very important. Organization is also important. The more organized you can be, the more seriously your students take you. It shows dedication to your students, which they will appreciate.
By learning more about these common mistakes and practicing the suggests discussed about avoiding them.
I think if one prepares for class and is not afraid to admit a mistake in there lecture you are better off. As instructors we look more human and caring to be hoinest with our students if we can admit that I'm not perfect. I also will turn my mistakes around and use them for research, then we both learn.
Hi Faith,
It is always good to have additional materials as a backup. Being over prepared is a plus.
Patricia
An instructor can make sure they are prepared. If something you have prepared to do in class finishes faster than planned, have a back up plan to cover the rest of the time. I think it is important to be prepared and organized.
Hi Abigail,
Students certainly appreciate an open door policy. Students want to be able to enter your office comfortably. Keep the approachable line open.
Patricia
Hi Elizabeth,
It is important to let the students know what the lesson of the day will consist of. Students like knowing the lesson plan.
Patricia
I over-prepare for every classtime and have something "extra" that can be used for any class for that specific course. For example, a game to review, a video, a lecture from another institution.
I review before I lecture on what I would like to talk about for that given day.
I have an open door policy as well, students respond to it very well. I also have discussions bringing real life experience into the class room to help students understand what the text is talking about. Finally, your mentor is your best resource. I go to the veteran teachers and Deans for advice,they bring great understanding.
Hi Fred,
Whenever students have lost respect for you it is extremely hard to get it back. Do yourself a favor and don't give students a reason to lose your respect.
Patricia
Class preparation is the most important thing we can do. If you are unprepared, the students will see it and loose respect for you. Without respect, they won't take you seriously.
Hi Paul,
I feel the message the courses teach is very valuable.
Patricia
The Dale Carnegie course teaches the same message as this Module. When you make a mistake, admit that you are wrong. Discuss the mistake and what you, and in this case, the student can learn from the mistake.
Hi Susan,
We are not doing our students any favors by sugar coating things. We must be honest and straight forward with them.
Patricia
Agree, Susie. Never sugar coat as it only bring false expectations to the student.
Thanks, Susie. Had not thought of role play with others but, that would be very good also.
Very nicely put John. You do have to practice it in your mind over and over again, then when faced with the situation, lesson, or whatever comes you are prepared for it. Probably a little role playing with other instructors would be good. It lessons the mistakes.
I don't sugar coat anything anymore either. I think I'm a fair person however, I want the students to know what they are getting themselves into when they come into the field they have chosen. Otherwise it's a culture shock to them when they try to keep a position in the field of their choice and I've seen them give up or being let go.
