I always take the time to have humor with knowledge. TAKE THE time to speak to every single student throughout the class. Go to them and speak with them directly and then direct it, what ever lecture or question I may ask, to the class. Repeat important info to the class and stress it with a louder tone with body language. I use alot of body language and move about the class. Im never at my desk, except imputting student enrollment attendance. ALWAYS look the part in dress everyday, even if coming to school on days off. Appearance is everything. I also instruct my class on behavior, your no longer in high school or been out some time. Be good and be a now professional even as a student.
One of the main points we want to show our students is professionalism: we show up early- not only on time, wear our uniform, and behave in a professional manner...something as small as always having a pen and pad on which to write...as instructors we try to show the behavior and image that are expected of ourselves and students as professionals. We also speak clearly to our students and let them know that they are always being interviewed so to speak and in a way we are too so our image is crucial.
I attempt to create a positive instructor image by following all campus procedures and guidelines, as well as being dressed in uniform or professional attire during every class. I also have HS teaching experience and I have seen how some teachers befriend thier students and that has never ended up well for the teacher even if they do "mean" well.
Maintaining a positive attitude at all times is also essential at creating a positive instructor image.
Hi Brenda,
Attitude is everything. I have seen some students that were not highly intelligent, but they had the right attitude to work hard for success, and they did and became very successful.
Patricia
Be professional. Be on time, in my profession we are always early. Dress appropriately. Be prepared. Be courteous. Set rules and follow them. Be genuine. Be supportive of your students, coworkers, and workplace.
I think these are just some of the many ways we can create a positive instructor image.
I agree with the attitude. Attitude sets the pace for realistic goals. In my experience, if your attitude is one of can do, then it will be achieved in the outcome.
Brenda S. Jimenez
Be confident is step one to me. Guidance by examples of previous experience demonstrates I am positive that I can enlist them in the learning process to achieve their goals and the course objectives. Making it fun is also as important to me. Having an opportunity to share something funny is quite the ice breaker and lets the student know I am not a figure, but a human as well as an instructor.
Brenda S. Jimenez
Hi James,
I like how you set even higher standards for yourself than what is established for the students. We are the professionals, and we should be held to higher standards.
Patricia
Hi James,
I fully understand what you are saying! It is a shame the way teachers dress especially in the public school system. Most of the time you can't tell the teachers from the students based on appearance. What has happened to the nice slacks, shirt and tie for men, and the nice dress for women? Those were the times when teachers dressed the part, and students fully respected them.
Patricia
Hi TC
I worked as an administrator (I was the tech guy) for over 10 years in a public school. You would not believe how many new teachers dress and act like the student body. A quick look in a classroom was not always enough to find the teacher. This was at a HS level and many of these teachers had graduated from this school just a few years before.
As a representative of my institution, I want the students to realize that I ask them to follow the rules, just as I do. I expect more of myself so they see a proper professional image. I hope this sets the stage for their self image and expectation by example rather than force.
Steps that can be taken to create a positive instructor image is to be knowledgable about the subject matter. When an instructor replies with "I don't know" more than the student I feel thats a problem. An instructor should leave their personal problems at home. Although this is hard sometimes I feel that the adult learner has paid good money for the classes and should not be met with an instructors personal issues.
If an instructor is smiling all the time it creates a positive image, also being prepared creates a positive image.
I try to be just as enthusiastic about teaching and sharing my knowledge with them as they are in learning and receiving.
Hi Barry,
I like your whole perspective here! I can tell you are a role model for your students, and you are an excellent instructor! Continue to lead by example!
Patricia
Of course to start off, you must be well groomed and dressed professionally. You will be judged more by your actions than by your words. Therefore, you must be ethical, know your subject matter, organized and be prepared for each class. Be on time. Keep your word. Be fair but firm.
Hi Sonja,
Preparation is key and a good attitude is contagious!!
Patricia
By going into the classroom with a positive attitude and being prepared for the class.
Hi Stephen,
Learning students name is a big plus. Students feel a sense of importance whenever the instructor knows their name. Learning a students name is a good way to build a rapport. Continue to work on your organizational skills, you will continue to get better. I live by sticky notes, folders, and bags to help keep me organized.
Patricia
Hi Jacqueline,
I agree! Students can tell when you are faking it to make it. No one knows it all. Admit to not knowing and find out the answer by the next class period.
Patricia
Be appraochable to students. Smile, greet students as they come into class each day, and be confident when presenting material. I think being honest with students is important also. If you don't know the answer to something, don't try to fudge an answer. Either research the question with the student for the answer, or tell the student you don't know, but you will find out for them.
Hi Denise,
I like your entire perspective about role modeling professionalism in every way. We must lead by example.
Patricia
