New instructor
I agree that it is not best to announce to the class that you are teaching for the first time. Just like in the field, never tell your patient that this is the first time doing a procedure. This will make the patient uncomfortable and not have trust in you.
Hi Donald,
Even as a first-time instructor if you make a strong presence, you are knowledgeable, confident, professional, and fair, you will not have any problems. It is really all in your presentation.
Patricia Scales
I think students sense a first time instructor but students can be very supportive.
Hhi Megan,
As long as you are confident and prepared as well as professional, knowledgeable, and fair, you will not have any problems. Also lay down your ground rules on Day 1. A strong presence on the first day is a must.
Patricia Scales
I agree. This section has reinforced ideas and thoughts I was having has a new instructor. Knowing that others has had the same thought and fears and how to hand them is very positive for me to head into the classroom for the first time.
Thanks, as a new instructor I am fairly sound on the technicial knowledge but have just started to instruct.
Hi Wynell,
Writing things down based on what did not work or may need to be improved really works well, an it makes you more effective as an instructor.
Patricia Scales
I agree as well. I have been teaching for around 9 years now and I still remember those first classes. I have learned so much and still continue to learn. Even when I start new classes I have never taught, I find myself making mistakes. I appreciate the module notes concerning writing down where we can make improvements. I will try this technique in the future.
Best wishes, Wynell
I agree you should not tell students it is your first time teaching. The students will not feel as comfortable and will be wery judgemental about your teaching.
I am so glad you say that. I remember when I first started teaching in the school I was challenged by so many students just on the strength of me being new.
Hi Virginia,
Always remember, you know more than your students about the subject matter, which is a great confidence booster to the instructor. Experience is really the best teacher.
Patricia Scales
This was a great section on the do's and don'ts on being a new instructor. I found this section to be so true and has great pointers for new instructors like myself. On my first day as a Clinical Instructor I was very nervous but the one thing I kept in the back of my mind was the years of hands on experience and skills I have in my profession. Reminding myself of my skills and experience allowed me to calm my nerves and jump right in with teaching the students in clinic.
