It's easier to start out strict and then loosen up
Most new instructors want to be liked. The problem with being easy at first it's impossible to get them to pay attention because you've lost them. You must show that you are in charge not them
It's a lot easier to be strict at the beginning and loosen up if they deserve it later.
I think this says it best !!
“I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everyone.â€
― Bill Cosby
Once you earn their respect, it will be a lot easier to manage the classroom. After you get to this point you can lighten up without losing that respect. I like to be firm, but fair. I also let the students know that I like to have fun too, and we can as long as we are accomplishing our objectives.
Hi Cindy,
Absolutely! Starting out strict is the best way. It is hard to regain discipline/respect once they are lost.
Patricia
I found this out the hard way when I first started teaching years ago. Once I had lost them it was almost impossible to get them back. So I now start stricter than I really am to get started on the right foot.
I have found that I can be strict to the point of going beyond a point of return and have lost student respect and just been thought of as a ***hole! I have learned to be strict but fair and tone it down its hard work. I come from a military background and no I was not a REMF, I was hardcore and extermly dedicated.
Hi Marilyn,
I love that phrase. It sounds a lot like what a parent would say. Respect is no doubt a two-way street. Respect your students as you expect them to respect you.
Patricia
I teach with "tough-love" My students know I expect professionalism from them at all times as well as respect. In turn, I give them the respect and praise they deserve.
I have to agree with you. I have done this in the past, but this coming quarter I am teaching newer students and will have to fall back into my stricter ways.
I always start off very strict and lighten up as time goes on. Some classes are rough and I need to be more strict with them. I start each class the same way and allow more freedoms to those who earn it. I also make sure that whatever I do for one I do for all.
Hi Annie,
You talk about problems...when you get into the "teacher's pet" situation. Being fair to ALL students is a must.
Patricia
I feel like there is a fine line between strict and fair. I have definitely learned the hard way to start out the course by absolutely sticking to class policies, while still maintaining a friendly, comfortable enviornment. Now that I oversee instructors, I can tell that many students like the idea of specific but fair guidelines, and they respond well to them--I think this eliminates any 'teacher's pet' situations.
I started out being pretty strict with my students. Now I find that it depends on the class. If I have students who have been in my class before, they know the rules and my expectations. I still go over them, but the standard has already been set. If I have new students, I spend more time setting my classroom standards. I also find that my reputation precedes me...students have usually heard from other students what to expect in my class.
When I first started teaching, one of the more experienced instructors told me to start out strict, and then find what the class was going to be like.
He said you can always back off a little, but it doesn't work to become stricter
I did okay, but I should have been tougher.
Lesson learned!
Hi Lisa,
You have to let students know that you are in control on Day 1. Even adults students will take advantage of you, if you allow it.
Patricia
I agree that it is easier to start out strict and loosen up. Some classes and some students can be more tring than others, Which is why i belive it is best to start out strict. This way the students know that you mean business and expect them to be prepared and to suceed in your class.
Hi Chrity,
I have found that in some courses I am a little more loose than others. I am extremely strict in Professional Development, but I am not nearly as strict in Customer Service. Professional Development is course that focuses on the job search process. For me, it can depend on the nature of the course.
Patricia
I can be a little tough with my students at first and then I loosen up as I get to know and trust them. I find it helpful to "tighten up" again towards the middle of the course to remind the students we need to stay on track and remain professional.
Hi Lauren,
As new instructors, it is important for them to understand that it is not a popularity contest. We all like to be liked, but being liked is not a priority. The priority is producing an environment so that effective learning can take place.
Patricia
