The role of the instructor
I think one of the hardest thing for instructors is trying to figure out whether to be an unattached authoritarian or a pal to students. It's hard to not care about students when you are trying to motivate them to do their best. It's easy for students to want to tell you everthing that is going on in their life some times to explain the reason why they are late with assignments. How can you come up with a balance?
Hi Rose,
Great challenge you present to your students the first day. I am sure they start to see how this new content will assist them in their career goals. The fact you tell them that they can learn accounting and then back it up with opportunities to do so is what teaching is all about.
Gary
Whether the problem is personal or academic, I think the role of the instructor is to listen and help the student find the right path. Teaching as with learning is a discovery process and each class is an opportunity for the instructor as well as the student. Each class brings a different dynamic and dealing with those dynamics at a specific point in time creates an opportunity. On the first day of class I tell my students they must "abandon their disbelief" that they cannot learn the language and practice of accounting. The role of the instructor is to present the opportunities and provide a model for lifelong learning.
Hi Meg,
The balance for educators is one that they must find and be comfortable with. I have found that I can establish rapport with my students so the know they can talk with me about their lives, classes and career goals. I will listen and make recommendations or referrals. I make it clear I am there in a professional role. I have attended graduations, weddings and other significant events in their lives to show my support for their efforts to develop their careers. I don't "hang" with them nor participate in social activities not related to school. This sets a clear line between personal and professional.
Gary
