i agree i do alot of prep word so the students feel like they can talk to me
Niel,
Passion is a tough act to follow, as few outward expressions can reasonably compete with this effective sentiment. I think passionate instructors create a more positive, upward learning environment.
Barry Westling
I am the type of person that must be prepared for each lesson, and I add things to my lecture that are relevant to the topic that I have a passion for. For example, I find food science extremely interesting and helpful, so I add this information to my lectures and demonstrations when I can. Not only is the student getting additional information AND seeing how what they have learned in other classes cis relevant and can be applied to other areas, but the students become more open to learning because of my passion for the subject.
Kimberley,
It's like an upward spiral. I agree, people are more attracted to upbeat people and who convey positive affirmations. It's contagious!
Barry Westling
I think staying positive is one of the best skills a person can learn. When I am around a positive upbeat person I enjoy being there. I listen more attentively to what they are saying and in turn, learn more from that person.
David,
Two good examples of personality extremes that emphasize utilizing ones natural strengths. Being aware of our strengths helps create better delivery and effectiveness.
Barry Westling
it plays a huge role, if you are long winded you may prefer lecture over hands on, if you are uncomfortable speaking in front of groups you may prefer small groups where the focus is not only on you
Tricia ,
Students do often emulate their instructors habits, especially when credibility and respect towards the instructor are high. Displaying the best of all of the good attributes students should possess can set an example for students to follow. Displayed consistently and professionally, students will see an example of a good role model they can follow.
Barry Westling
I am very organized and dedicated and I expect my students to be as well. I like to set them up in an organized fashion and hopefully they will learn from my example. this can be challenging though...
Alethea,
Great. We all have strengths and from that, students will benefit from our stronger suit. Good insrtructors will seek ways to work on weaker areas and promote lifelong learning by being examples of it to their students. Instruction will only get better as a result.
Barry Westling
Doing lots of prep work helps to direct and manage classroom situations. I use my personality to redirect classroom to different activities by using humor. I think it is important to play to my strengths as an instructor to deliver information.
Kathryn,
Animated, enthusiastic and upbeat instructors seem to always get good feedback from their students. As I go on, I find it takes more and more energy, interest and focus to keep the level of enthusiasm up day after day. But the feedback I get makes it balance out at the end of a module.
Barry Westling
I try to be expressive and excited about all topics attempting to excite the class as well. Being interactive with my lectures and throwing in real life examples in my own life as well as having them talk about theirs hopefully keeps it more interesting for them.
April,
Very true. We man make classes interesting or just deliver material in a dry, deadpan manner. Eek, who'd want that?
Barry Westling
I feel as if personality plays an important part in keeping students attention. Making class fun makes the material easier to learn.
Ivy,
I think everyone is diverse and unique in their own way. So, everyone will have their own version of upbeat, energetic, animated, sense of humor, etc. Students tend to stay interested when their instructor makes class interesting. And I think everyone has their own way of doing that.
Barry Westling
Michelle,
It's true that our personality can make a positive influence towards students. Who would not flourish in an atmosphere with an instructor who demonstrated they are honest and sincere, upbeat and enthusiastic, creative and energetic, approachable and understanding, and knowledgeable in their topic area? These traits are among those that create better learning environments for our students.
Barry Westling
Jamie,
Great! Your personality type is one I wish all instructors would adopt. I think the more an instructor views their class from the lens of their students, they will be more understanding (and more willing) to make choices that favor making the class experience one that conveys "I care and I'm interested in your success". Unfortunately, too many instructors have become (or begin) hardened, stuck in there own ways, and make the instructional experience disagreeable for the students subjected to their classes.
Barry Westling
personality is huge! If I have a dull, dry personality, it makes it difficult for the instructor to be animated and excited about what is being taught.
I find it very important to let your personality and personal experiences influence the delivery methods.. I feel it helps create a better connection with your students and the topic.
