Professionalism
I enjoyed this 1st session "developing as an Instructor" and the section on professionalism. It is especially true upon entering a classroom with proper attire and subject matter knowledge.
The student certainly observe this and pay close attention to this as well. They also make comments about your professionalism and subject matter as well to other students.
Excellent area of interest and I will continue.
Hi Teresa,
Right you are. They are measuring how you model yourself against their perceived idea of how a person in the field should be. So we need to make sure we reflect the highest level of that model.
Gary
Students pay attention to the way an instructor dresses. It is important for instructors to dress professionally. We do not want the student learning environment to be distracted by unprofessional dress.
Hello Shari,
I agree I also enjoyed this first session. I was instructed by nunns my whole life . I believe in structure and being a role model. Students look up to you as the instructor to follow the rules. I heard an instructor say one day " I dont have to follow the dress code i already paid my dues". I will never forget the look on the students face. Several days later I realize the student was not attending class, I called her and she was sadden by the insructors response and felt she did not want to become that type of MA. It took some time to convince her but she came back . This has taught me a valuable lesson... "Be careful what you say it could impact a student's decisions". I am more aware of my attire,conduct and strive to be professional at all times . In and out of the classroom. I did mention this in a forum and I see changes in OUR dress attire !!! Final point the student taught me a lesson and made me aware of the serious impact our actions and response can have on them.
I agree with all the comments that have been made. Professionalism is simply practicing what you are teaching. As instructors we are teaching the students about how important soft skills are in their career; therefore, we should be demonstrating neatness, being on time, good hygiene, positive verbal and nonverbal communication,etc. on a daily basis and making changes or corrections to improve ourselves so that we can be better instructors/role models.
Hi Evelyn,
Right you are. The students need to see the behaviors and conduct that contribute to career success in their instructors. If they don't have them just as you say it is going to be very hard for them to become employed.
Gary
Setting a good professional example in the classroom is so important. Especially with the economy today, it is imperative to be professional in the way you dress as well as your language and how you carry yourself. Students need to know what to expect when they are entering the workforce.
Hi Karen,
Good point about the need to develop job seeking and holding skills as well. Without these skills the students are going to have some serious challenges as they seek employment.
Gary
Professionalism is what makes the difference in who gets hired for the job. I emphasis this many times during the course. The market today is tuff and image is important. My students frequently quiz me on how I would handle a particular situation. Many of my students have never been in a professional setting and don't have the life experiences to interact properly.
I think professionalism sets the grounds for the students future
Hi Gregrey,
I think it will work if you have earned the respect of your students and have established rapport with them so they see you setting them up to "catch" you on certain compliance things. This makes a game out of it and helps to sharpen their observation skills and knowledge of what is and isn't accepted in their career field. So use it as a form of a game between you and your students as the course progresses.
Gary
I like the idea of doing little things that the students will catch me on it. IE; leaving my shirt and having the students call me on it. Only if they are in complience they can call me on it. I think it will make them more consciuos of there professionalism and what to catch their mentor. Remebering they can' call you on it if they are not in complience. How do you feel about this practice?
I really enjoyed this first session. I think it is of utmost importance that you present a complete picture of professionalism. You must set an example for your students not only in your attire but also in your preparedness and knowledge of the subject matter.
Hi Geraldine,
Great to hear! Glad you are enjoying the content of this course. You are going to continue to expand your instructional expertise as you gain both knowledge and experience.
After many years of teaching I am still learning new strategies and ways to reach students so it is a wonderful and rewarding career long journey.
Gary
