Would it be possible to give your faster learning students a leadership role in some form of groups to help the slower students? Maybe make them a team leader.
I'm having some difficulty relating to students who want a rigidly organized program. I try to adjust the pace of my class to accomodate those who are a little slower. How can I keep the fast learners engaged?
I believe the first and foremost way would be to show up to class not only on time, but a little early. This small action goes a long way to help students understand that being on time is a large part of being successful in a career.
A second way would be to act very professional at times, including not losing temper easily. Students will learn that everyone doesn't have the same personality. Just because someone disagrees with you, doesn't mean tempers need to flare. Have a discussion about issues and having the ability to accept contructive criticism and learn from it is a great skill to have.
Professional dress is a big one at our campus. Over time, many instructors in other programs have become less than professional in their dress. Students need to know that you set yourself apart as a professional and it starts with first impressions like dress.
I feel setting youself up as being professional right from the start sends a message to all your students. Doing the things such as following the rules,being fair,approachable,and caring set the tone for some of the things required to succeed after graduation.
The instructor should always model to the student the professionalism needed to succeed in the field.The professional dress and language are two very big factors in the work place.
Jimmy
Hi Debra,
Good point and one we need to reinforce ourselves with each time we step into the classroom.
Thanks for sharing it with us.
Gary
By setting a good example students can see how you are to act in a professional setting. If they see you as a mentor and mimic your lead, it will give them a basis of how to act in the field.
Lisa
I can use a professional tone and behavior. I can be careful of my words, to ensure that I am a professional in all that I do. I ensure that I dress for success, too!
Debra Touhey, MSA
That is what it is ALL about! I always keep that in mind with my business. In my business, it is about the customer. No one will pay us to do our job if no one NEEDS the help. We need to tell ourselves every day why we are here.
Debra Touhey
Hi Brenda. I also feel that we need to set the right example for our students. They should be looking up to us for guidance and trust. We need to show them that we are the "end product" of a good education and hard work.
Debra Touhey
Hi Marci,
I wish I had a good answer to your question. I have been in education for many years and this saying has haunted us since before I can remember. The origin of the saying comes from years back when students set at the feet of teachers and the teachers talked with them about various topics. Only the less intelligent or poor did work with their hands thus they weren't qualified to teach anyone anything. Somewhere it got turned around to the point that the saying reflects on people who teach as being incapable of doing the work themselves. As an attorney and former judge many folks can't imagine that you would rather teach students and shape lives than sit on the bench or practice law.
Not sure I really answered your question. I know in my case and I am sure yours as well I figure we can DO and TEACH which gives us the best of both worlds.
Gary
Dr. Meers:
How does one overcome the widely held belief that "those who can DO, and those who can't TEACH." As an attorney and former criminal Judge, now teaching a completely technical non-legal and non-academic course, I'm curious as to how in the academic corners of teaching how full-time professional teachers deal with that. Thanks. MARC
Hi Christina,
This is so important and you helping students to develop skill in this area. As we all know from our work world experience we have to be able to get along with others in order to reach our goals. The more knowledge the students have about how to resolve issues and create team building the more successful they are going to be.
Gary
I think first and foremost of demonstrating empathy and effective communication. I have found in my positions that I am often confronted with conflict of opinion or idea and if I can show empathy, a sense of understanding and a positive attitude, these conflicts are resolved with ease and we are able to maintain a healthy working relationship. I think modeling this in the classroom is a great way for students to understand how to resolve issues and become better communicators on the job.
Students look up to their teacher and regard them as someone that can be a role model for them. Behaviors that can be modeled that will encourage students to succeed in their career are showing enthusiasm, positive outlook and knowing what I do and teach in my profession. Show respect to all, posses professionalism and truthfullness. Demostrating self-determination and perseverance to acheive set goals. When students sense and sees these behaviors and attitude from their instructor, I believe students will most likely be inspired to persevere and will be determined to succeed in their career.
Hi Shelli,
Right you are about establishing a professional atmosphere in the classroom and through your behavior, dress and interaction. All of these components are needed for an instructor to be the professional role model for the students.
Gary
We can model behavior that we find exemplary in other people. For example, people who dress professionally convey a sense of pride in who they are and seem more confident. People who use foul language convey rudeness and lack of respect for others.
I personally feel that fairness is important. I know that I loose respect for instructors that grant special cirucumstances to some but having said that, compassion is also needed.
Hi Cynthia,
Being a role model to students is so important as well as enforcing the requirements of the field while conducting the class. You are right about the need for students to understand that what you are asking of them in the course is the same as that which will be asked of them once they are in the workplace. They have to understand that the skills of cooperation, attendance and dedication are essential to career success.
Gary
Hi Donald,
Good points highlighting the components of a successful instructor as a role model. Thanks.
Gary
