Hi Corey,
When students make negative comments deal with that student immediately so that this type of behavior does not continue. Negativity is cancerous!
Patricia Scales
Instructors should be confident, have integrity, and well as be approachable. Instructors should also stay inline with the mission and values of the school as well as be mindful of any social media. This allows for instructors create a positive image.
I totally agree but in some cases, i've noticed students making comments about the instructor, like the instructor think he knows everything and etc.
One step you can take to create a positive instructor image is to be confident when speaking to the class. This creates a sense of leadership for the students to follow. Additionally, being punctual and prompt helps the students look up to you.
First of all, I am constantly aware that I am the role model for my students in their future chosen field. I remember and refer back to leaders that I have admired and emulated in my field and the qualities I deemed positive.
I strive to uphold professional standards by creating a classroom atmosphere of respect, trust and a model of quality. I refer to my own skills and experiences in the MA field which provide credibility and proficiency.
Factors such as our dress, mannerisms, the way in which we address individual students and the class as a whole, create a positive image.
The biggest way to develop a positive image is to be consistent. I try to remain consistent in dealings with my students. While emotions can, at times, lead us to rash decisions, I like to never offer decisions on the spot. I like to take in all of the facts and keep consistent with my previous actions.
Creating a positive instructor image is crucial. It is the first step in gaining your students' respect. Always maintaining a professional demeanor, giving respect to everyone you encounter, providing the best classroom experience possible by being prepared, continuing your education in the field, and staying relevant in your local professional community are all ways to create a positive instructor image.
Be sure you know everyones name.
Be organized.
Be clear on the syllabus.
Make sure they know what is expected of them.
Never let them know you have never taught before.
Being positive, confident, and focused.
I can arrive early, so that as each student arrives I can great them, and be prepared in advance. IT also gives me a chance, as the instructor, to feel like I have familiarity with the space I will be presenting in, and to make sure that all my materials are working properly, and to be able to go to a back up plan if needed, before class starts. I should strive to have the class run on time so that the students feel like I am in control and that they know that I value their time and can manage my own.
Looking, acting and sounding the part all help create a positive image. Things like smiling and laughter help students see you as approachable and someone who doesn't take themselves too seriously.
Hi Daniel,
I love your perspective! You can really teach others a lot about professionalism. I can tell you practice what you preach. We need more serious educators like yourself. I would love to pick your brain. I have been teaching for more than 25 years, but there is always something to learn.
Patricia Scales
Hi Jeffrey,
This type of information is very motivating to students. When they know that the instructor has walked in their shoes and came out successful. It lets the students know that they too can do it!
Patricia Scales
One tool I use with my students is detailing my background, including the fact that I was where they were 25 years ago. This approach not only helps create a positive instructor image, but can also work as a motivator to students as to what they can achieve, and also lets them know that I understand what they are feeling.
Jeff
I am now semi-retired from my profession of 35 years, but for my entire career I "preached" the importance of a dignified, professional image. It really boils down to the public's perception of you as a professional, and we get only one opportunity to make that first, good impression. The same is true in education. We have one chance to make a first impression with our students, and we owe it to them to work very hard to ensure their first impression of us is extremely positive, even impressive !! Then we owe it to them to follow up by being resourceful, interesting, and fair.
As an instructor, we should make a conscious effort to look the part at all times. As instructors, we are their first examples of what a career professional in their field should look like.
I often start with the basics of Ms and Mr when referring to my students. I expect to be referred to as the same, so by addressing them in that manner they are more prone to reciprocate the greeting.
Hi Ana-Maria,
I agree! Excitement starts at the top with the instructor. Students get excited when the instructor is excited.
Patricia Scales
Attitude and presentation of the instructor is very important I believe. I like to have fun while I teach and try to encourage my students to have fun also, especially when the material isn't the most exciting. We all have bad days but I make it a point to leave that at the door as i walk into my classroom. I encourage my students to do the same.
Displaying an enthusiastic attitude at all times during course delivery will help draw in your students, and keep them interested in the subject. Also, being approachable and showing your genuine interest in their success will create a positive instructor image.
