Modeling for students
Modeling behavior is an important part of the instructional style of an instructor. I have had students come on the first day of class in attire that was far from professional, speaking in slang, hygiene not acceptable and using profanity.
The second day of class I came into class in ripped and dirty clothes, my hair all over, chomping on gum, dirty hands and face, and an overall appearance of "a mess". The students sat there in awe.
As they say, "a picture, or in this case a visual, was worth more than a 1000 words". I then explained how their outward appearance has to be professional if they want to succeed in a profession.
I asked them to write down what they thought of me and my appearance while I changed into my professional attire. We discussed how their attitude changed towards me. It was an eye-opener for most of them and it changed some attitudes rather quickly.
Does anyone have any good ways they have used modeling?
Very good. Most students do not realize the importance of how they look to fellow workers or customers
Roberta,
I loved your example. I have also had days in which students arrived for class looking "less than professional". This was a great idea and I plan on using it in the future to motivate students and open their eyes to their own behavior/appearance. I think they often fail to recognize that being a professional is more than knowledge or a certificate/degree...it is their everyday BEHAVIOR. Professionalism can be protrayed in EVERY setting...whether at work, home or in public. It is easy to separate or "pick out" a professional person in a room. I want my students to strive to be that person!
What agreat idea. I might try this if can get approval. As an instructor in training, I'll take all the ideas I can get.
Hi William,
You are right on with your approach. You dress for the field and career you are preparing students in. This is what modeling is all about and targeted it well.
Gary
As we know, instructors are models and a model is a person who is a standard of excellence to be imitated. The way in which a teacher dresses should reflect this.
I have known some instructors who come to class "dressed down" in tee shirt, jeans and sneakers. Others go to far in the other direction and wear very formal attire.
In my classes, I strive for a "business casual" look as this seems to be the most appropriate.
Hi Roberta,
I love the example you shared. I think this strategy will work for all instructors. I have done this in the past with the same results that you had. The students can't believe we come to class that way since we are teachers and we shouldn't dress or act that way. Wellllll the point is to the students that is what we are trying to share with you as we help you develop your professional skills. Be a professional at all times.
Another key part of modeling is attention to class management. Always start class on time, be prepared, present an organized presence, and give feedback frequently. This will help students to see that they need to do these things in their work lives as well.
Gary
