I prefer to be well prepared for the class the wk before. This allows me to know whether the material is accurate for the upcoming class and if any changes are needed. Being prepared for the student sets an example of how important it is for them to do the same, not only in class but in the work place too.
James,
Preparation does convey a tone about readiness, and students are very observant when an instructor appears for class disorganized, rushed, or so harrased that students would not want to interrupt, which is not a good environment for learning.
Barry Westling
Lack of organization can have a negative effect on how learners view an instructor. It may even give the perception that the instructor lacks knowledge on the subject matter.
Cheryl,
I think students expect their instructors to be highly skilled professionals, totally prepared in all settings every day. It's when the instructor displays behavior contrary to that image that students begin to doubt the professionalism, preparedness, and readiness to teach the classes. Being ready is not a difficult task, and is the least we can do for our students.
Barry Westling
Being prepared shows respect to the students and shows them that you are interested in helping them to succeed in the course.
Penny,
Students are observant and when they see a well organized instructor who appears for class prepared, that set a tone for productive instruction, and may serve as a role model for some students to emulate.
Barry Westling
Showing the professionalism of teaching skill to the students.
Stephanie,
Yes, respect is a valued aspect of trust the students reward their instructors with who they feel is prepared, ready, knowledgeable and helpful to them in their pursuit of learning.
Barry Westling
An instructor that is organized is exhibiting a "live demonstration" to the students of what is to be expected of them as well. It also assists in developing respect for the instructor.
Herbert,
I think students appreciate the effort, time, and professionalism that demonstrates the importance of preparedness. To the students, this is a basic assumption expected of their instructors behavior. To instructors, it's a basic responsibility to our employers.
Barry Westling
I work hard to set a good example for my students anytime I am interacting with them.
The first day of class I tell them the importance of coming to class prepared and by me being prepared, and organized it shows the benefits of both to my students.
Most students react positively if you are prepared and have a plan that you execute, and it flows nicely throughout the session.
Williams,
We do lead, and students are usually very observant about their instructors habits and practices. They know when it is an off day or when the instructor is less prepared than ordinary. Consistency is as important as preparedness because, just as in instruction, repetition prepares students.
Barry Westling
Students are in school to learn. Apart from the subject content they learn a lot of other things including habits and behaviors. If the instructor is organized the students will learn to be organized and if the instructor is not organized the students will learnt to be disorganized. It is therefore very important for the instructor to be well organized and prepare to teach. I believe this will enable the students to emulate his example. This is what is called leadership by example.
Renee,
Sure, without a good solid plan for the day or the lesson, achievement of a successful class is less likely, and certainly would not be the best learning experiences capable for the instructor to provide.
Barry Westling
It is important for an instructor to be organized and prepared to teach, so that precise lesson planning can be executed and conducive to individual and collaborative student learning.
Melissa,
Yes, students are good barometers for sensing the level of preparation. We expect our students to be ready for class, and it's quite apparent when they are not prepared. So it is with their instructors, it's apparent when they are not prepared.
Barry Westling
Melissa,
Being prepared really does set the tone for students to feel their instructor knows the material, is ready and serious about the instruction, and conveys competence and confidence in it's delivery. Without that preparation, the opposite feelings are possible.
Barry Westling
Nicole,
Yes, and confidence is an important attribute to convey to students. They want and expect to feel their instructor knows the material and can convey it with confidence and competence. Preparation adds to feeling confident.
Barry Westling
I agree. Students certainly have more respect for an instructor that is well prepared. I feel as though a student will have more confidence in the subject that instructor is presenting. Students catch on very quickly when a instructor does not feel comfortable with a topic or understand the subject.
By preparing prior to class it will allow you to be better organized as well as ensure you have all equipment, handouts etc needed for class. I typically prepare my lessons one to two days prior. This way I feel more comfortable in class. I am more prepared to answer questions and really feel more confident in my lecture.
