being prepared and on time to class/clinic.
I make it a priority to always be, first of all on time to class/clinic, and definitely being prepared.
Matt,
You nail an important tenet, that is that we are preparing students for the real world of work where they will be responsible and accountable for their actions. I think beside knowledge and skill, instruction involving things we can do to help students attain and keep their jobs is vital (soft skills).
Barry Westling
I couldn't agree more. I teach in a culinary school, and it's incredibly important for me to be on time to class for quite a few reasons. LIke others have said, it sets the standard for the class and what I expect. Also, it establishes what is "acceptable" in the industry.
In addition thought, my punctuality directly affects their lab work. If I am not there on time, they are not able to finish their work for the day, and that could reflect as me just not caring about their education.
Kimberly,
Yes, you're right, we can be role models of professionalism and any effort we make that presents a professional demeanor will be noticed (and perhaps emulated) by our students.
Barry Westling
If it's not important to the instructor, it's not going to be important to the student. Our classrooms today are the offices, labs, hospitals, etc. of tomorrow.
Thomas,
Right! We are an example, a role model if you will. The biggest benefit is to the instructor, who when on time, doesn't feel huuried or rushed, has time to get everything set up, and maybe has time to chat with students or answer questions before class begins.
Barry Westling
I like that as well, but in our facility, there is only a 10 min break between each class.. So we keep an open door policy to allow students to stop in for any help they may need. But as far as being on time, its crutial.. how will the students be on time, if their instuctor can't be?
Judy I like this rule because we as instructors lead by example and if we expect the students to be on time then we should be too. It could send a negative message to the students if the instructor is not on time to class.
Judy,
I think this is a cool policy. Although it mandates being available for students, it does allow the needed contact that most students can benefit from, even when they might even know they need it. As you say, it would seem to promote trust and respect by students towards their instructor.
Barry Westling
We have what is called the 15/15 minute rule. What this means is that all of the instructors have to be in class and ready to learn 15 minutes before class begins and stay 15 minutes after class ends. The reason for this is that it allows students to speak with the instructor and get help if they need it. Some students are too shy to ask for help in front of the other students and this time allows for that. It also allows the instructor to prepare for the upcoming class. Students are aware of when the instructor is prepared and organized for class and they respect this. If we expect the students to be on time and be prepared for class then we should too. I think being organized and on time lets my students know I am ready and eager to teach them.
Abel,
Great. Students notice, and when we're prepared students do better.
Barry Westling
