Being Human...
Understandably, many of my students have issues with failure. Many are adults and have not been in school for some years. It has been my practice to buttress my learned skilled with regards to aswaging fear with my ability to be affable. With all the psychology that entertains the notions of fear, I find that just being human with my students is usaully the best way to break through.
Nancy,
I agree! We can all learn from others (and our) mistakes and challenges.
Susan Backofen
I think it is important to sometimes share when something was difficult for us and how we managed to deal with the situation. This allows students to see us as both human beings with our own challenges and as role models because we rose above or learned something from difficulty- all sharing within appropriate boundaries, of course.
I agree... Students have a good B.S. sensor. They are well aware of their investment and want the truth from their instructors. They want to know that the person they ae learning from is human.
I'am agree with that, being human helps you create a strong bond with students and they can be understanding, advice or help when they need it,being human helps the student feel comfortable and secure.
Michael,
Being human and the ability to laugh at yourself in public tells a great story and sets a wonderful example.
Susan Backofen
I try to "real" in the classroom. Using humor, even self-deprecating, is a way for me to be human. I often tell my students that I never make a mistrake. I get all kinds of looks, but eventually they just smile when I say it. I also tell them that I expect that they also will never make a mistrake.
Cheyney,
Very true. Being human and showing our ability to work through fear and faults makes everyone more comfortable.
Susan Backofen
