Should teachers be seen as role models?
Teachers must assume the role as leader.
I think teachers are automaticly in a role Model position
I agree that in the classroom instructors have the responsibility to serve as a role model, but also in the halls, parking lot, or even off campus. If recognized as an instructor one is under constant scrutiny and should always try to set a good example.
It's true, and if you don't do so doesn't mean that students won't. After reading my reviews early on I realized that while I had created a comfortable environment for my students I was not presenting myself as professionally as possible. The two are not mutually exclusive.
Hi Lee,
Excellent points. This is why we must continue to develop our skills as educators and remember as you say we are always being watched by someone.
Gary
I totally agree. Outside of formal programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters, there's no application to become a role model. Having said that, role models are chosen by those who admire, respect, or love their work, efforts, attitude, and/or position. One must be totally aware of this. Think about it, children always say who they idolize rather than write or call a person up to ask for permission to idolize them. This is a powerful asset and responsibility though. Some people receive inspiration, drive, passion, etc from their role model. However, we have increasingly seen teachers/instructors abuse this relationship (even to the point where crimes are committed. Those who take the Charles Barkley approach should reconsider their reasoning, or re-evaluate their purpose for teaching.
Like it or not, please be aware that someone is always looking up to you. As educators, we must make sure it's for the right reasons.
Hi Joseph,
This way they can what someone looks that that is successful in the field that they are preparing to enter.
Gary
Absolutly students look to the instructor for guidence and look at the kind of person they are and compare it to themselves to see what is in common
I think teachers should always be seen as role models. I remember all of the teachers I have had over the years, since preschool. They all impacted my life in one way or another. I still look at them as role models. I can only hope that I have a positive impact on the students I teach.
Hi William,
Yes, we are models one way or another. We need to always keep this in our minds so we conduct ourselves as professionals.
Gary
Whether we like it or not I do believe that this is the case. I distinctly remember looking up to may college factuly and wanting to be like them in so many ways.
I'm constantly amazed at how my students analyze every single thing I say and do - it's so important for me to remain aware of that at all times.
Hi Allan,
Correct! Sometimes instructors forget that and this is when they remain models but in a negative way. We are always in this role no matter where we are in the college and even in the community.
Gary
I think teachers are automatically seen as role models by students, whether we are conscious of this or not. For this reason we should ensure that all or our interactions with students, within and outside the classroom, are appropriate and consistent with the fact that we are "automatic" role models, and leaders.
The teacher in the classroom has an excellent opportunity and ultimately a responsibility to serve as a role model.
Teachers must assume a role as leaders and lead by example in the classroom.
