Presenting ones self in an appropriate manner seems to be an issue that affects many of my students. They do not always realize how many people see all of their daily actions and interactions. As an instructor I need to interact with administration, other instructors and students in ways that show even basic professional conduct. If students are watching you as you move through class and the campus they tend to begin to model your behaviors as well. Many times I have found that even with modeling the behavior, a discussion of real world expectations in the workplace needs to occur within the classroom.
I agree with this one hundred percent Robin i believe it sets a wonderful example
One way to model behaviors is to set a standard for the student and to adhere to that standard. This allows them to see theory in action.Not to just talk the talk but to walk the walk.
Hi Margaret,
I like your method of not only telling the students what you expect but serving as a role model for those expectations as well. This is so important in the development of soft skills in students.
Gary
Yes i do the same. By doing this you are also showing your professionalism outside the classroom and in the community.
I find that showing the students as well as telling them what my expectations are is a tremendous help. Therefore. I am on time and prepared whether I am teaching clinical or theory,
I am an instructor in both the clinical and classroom setting. I have found that being able to show the students what I expect as well as tell them help tremendously. I am on time and ready for each class no matter if it is clinical or theory. I listen to them and show them I am interested in their questions and experience most notably in clinical. in return i expect them to be on time and be prepared. I also expect them to listen quietly and be professional when I am showing them a skill at the bedside or discussing a client diagnosis.
I am an instructor in both the clinical and classroom setting. I have found that being able to show the students what I expect as well as tell them help tremendously. I am on time and ready for each class no matter if it is clinical or theory. I listen to them and show them I am interested in their questions and experience most notably in clinical. in return i expect them to be on time and be prepared. I also expect them to listen quietly and be professional when I am showing them a skill at the bedside or discussing a client diagnosis.
Hi Jane,
Good comments about being a good role model. We are going to be a model for our students one way or another so we had better make it a positive one. This will help the class go better, earn the respect of our students and move them closer to realizing that this is the career area for them.
Gary
Hi Vivian,
Way to show that you are a dedicated professional educator that cares about her students. Your students will respect this and focus their attention on what you want them to accomplish as a result.
Gary
I do agree that the minute you step in front of your class, you are a role model and I feel that first impressions are long lasting. It is extremely important to be prepared for this encounter because it is during this crucial time when students will be viewing you and appraising your professional style to determine if they want to accept you as a highly skilled expert in your field. Even the first-time instructor must present with all the positive behaviors including proper attire, proper classroom etiquette and competent leadership skills during the first meeting with their students. Demonstration of these successful career skills are exceptionally important for students to see represented in their instructor.
This is so true, if we want to students to be professional, we must be professional as well. We are setting the examples for them. They are looking and watching every move the instructors are making.
I think that one of the ways to be used to model behaviors is showing confidence, but not being arrogant about it. Having the attitude of I am the instructor and the student's should not question me is not the right attitude. The students do have the right to question what we are saying,but we as instructors must think about why the question is being asked. We don't need to spend time proving we are smarter than them. Even though we may have more experience in the field. They can since that chip on our shoulders and want to question it.
I am very patient and calm and I teach my students the importance of these qualities. I have no preconceived ideas about anyone, I listen to both sides of a situation before a decision is made, I am organized and stay professional yet I show my students that I care.
Students see these behaviors and tend to want to follow them.
Hi Yan,
Students like to know they are being taught by a professional as well as have examples shared with them from the field. You make a good point about how they respond to such information.
Gary
Hi Robin,
Thank you for this profile of a professional in your field as well as an educator. This sets the stage in such a way that the students know from day one what expectations are and how to meet them.
Gary
Hi Francis,
Right you are about soft skills. They are essential for career success. We need to make the development of them a key part of our instruction.
Gary
Hi Loretta,
Great point and one that many instructors forget to follow and then when problems surface they can't figure out why.
Gary
I usually give example from my professional career which reflect how and what I usually do and how I usually approach the resolution in the situation(s) similar to what the topic of the class is.
In my course we are preparing students to work in dental clinical and/or business settings. The behavior that must be displayed and reiterated daily, without fail, is our personal professionalism. I have to be in the classroom or lab 15 minutes before I expect my students to be there. I should be welcoming each student every morning. My appearance is vital to student success: my nails must be neatly manicured (no garrish polish), my hair must be pulled back, my uniform must be cleaned and pressed, my shoes must be clean and my lab coat must be clean and pressed. I cannot hope to insist that my students display a professional appearance if I don't.
