Instructional Professionalism is a big concept for this first time instructor.
I think delivering the course material in a way the learners can absorb while presenting yourself as a good example would be a start.
Hi James,
I have a number of "surprise" activities I can use when I notice the class wearing down or drifting away. The frequency of using them is based upon the dynamics of the class so we may go several weeks before I use a surprise or I may use two in an evening. My classes run from 4 until 10 pm so I am dealing with tired students that have worked all day so this is why I need to bring variety to the classroom as needed.
The key is to read the mood and flow of the class and then you will know when to use a surprise.
Gary
Regarding unpredictability, how often should you engage in this technique?
Hi Gwen,
Good definition and one that instructors need to always keep in mind when teaching.
Gary
To me instructional professionalism is being able to instruct a course with skills and competence in a highly trained profession.
instructional professionalism is being able to instruct a course with skills and competence in a highly trained profession.
It's important to be a good role model, professionalism is key.
Hi Robin,
Thank you for these comments about how to be an effective and professional instructor. These are key points that instructors need to consider if they are going to have maximum impact on the learning of their students.
Gary
Being prepared, presenting a professional appearance, and being comfortable are very important factors in the facilitation of the learning process but I would like to add to this with a few points that I think are important.
 Each class as well as each individual is different and must be treated as such. Even though the class material may be the same, use of the same teaching method may not always be appropriate.
 You can motivate positive learning by expressing your love of the subject material.
 You do not know everything. You will never know everything and a smart professional realizes that there is always someone who is more knowledgeable than you. When a student asks a question that you do not know the answer to then you should be professional enough to admit that you do not know the answer but you will look into it and get back with them. Failure to supply the student or students with the answer will interfere with the professional appearance you are trying to present.
I agree; dress for the job, be on time, use your materials approptiately, and make sure you present yourself to the students in a manner that clearly identifies how they in turn will need to act in the field.
I try to dress the part of what a CVT would look like in the field.
We work on case studies that I see in practice. I advise the students of the things that I did to help the case end the way it did.
I invite my students to job shadow with me while I am working on the job.
I show my passion for my work.
Hi Ryan,
What some ways you demonstrate professionalism for your students? Instructors are always looking for ways to make sure to show their students that they are professional so any suggestions you can make will be helpful. Thanks in advance for your input on this.
Gary
It is showing the students respect and being a role model of the profession you are teaching in.
For me, it's about knowing my subject well, having a very good delivery plan, and being flexible in the delivery to accomodate students' learning styles and esoteric challenges with the subject/course.
Hi Roger,
You are right on with your approach of bringing modeling and professionalism into the class. You are showing what a professional dresses and acts like so your students will know the expectations of the field. The stories from the field serve as examples of what they are going to face upon graduation. This helps the students see the relevance of what they are being taught.
Gary
As an Accounting/Business Instructor, I personally believe that you must always look the part - that is dress that identifies the profession. Further, I am a small business owner myself which gives me many examples of actual applications to match the theoretical textbook. True stories always enrich the potential boredom of the text.
I would define instructional professionalism as my modeling of being dressed appropriately for instruction, begining class on time and presenting course content according to the syllabus and as accurately as possible.
By emulating the role of the topic. Proper business attire, being on-time. Speaking in an educated manner, keeping composure, & being able to relate to the students. You must be a role model in your appearance, & your acts if the student is truly to get the entire experience of the course.
I believe that instructional professionalism begins the moment you have first contact with your students. You must set the correct tone with them from the outset. This would include explaining your expectations of them, informing them your requirments of the class and being professional. Professionalism includes your mannerisms, your dress, your ability to organize the class, relate the material to the students and keep the class learning envirnment flowing. Teach and lead the class by example. Don't expect students to be ontime if you are not. Don't expect the assignments to be turned in on time if they are not given out on time.
I would define instructional professionalism as setting an example of what is expected in both the classroom and the real world profession. To me this would include professional appearance, being prepared, being on time, speaking in a professional mannor and treating others with respect.
