I agree. Knowledge of subject matter is one of the key components to defining instructional professionalism. But that is just one small part of it. Delivery of the material also defines professionalism. If the instructor is not well prepared and doesn't know the material well, it can effect one's credibility as a knowledgable resource.
I also think appearance and punctuality are important factors to account for when trying to define professionalism. For example, a disheveled instructor who arrives late to class gives students the impression that this behavior is acceptable in a professional work environment, when in fact, it is not.
Instructors should be role models for the level of professionalism expected in the corresponding field. I, myself, look to past instructors who have inspired me for guidance in my instructional professionalism.
the practice of professional teaching
Knowledgeable about the course that you are going to instruct is the key point of instructional professionalism. My belief is that it takes 30 seconds for a student to decide if you have instructional professionalism. Instructional professionalism include showing confidence in yourself and a professional attitude the moment you enter the classroom.
Being prepared and knowledgable, having an attitiude that is friendly and encouraging, being thorough in grading and providing detailed, contructive feedback (helpful to the students and let's them know you actually read their work).
Being prepared for class, keepeing abreast of changes in the field,knowing school policies and procedures, treating other instructors and students with respect and showing up on time and being available to answer student questions and offering academic help. In addition being neat , clean and dressing appropriately sts an example for students.
Hi Beth,
By example and behavior. Always demonstrate the highest level of professionalism and the ethics will come through. Also, you can teach them by highlighting examples of them when discussing a case study, doing a demonstration or have a group discussion.
Gary
Hi Alan,
Sorry for the feeling of disconnect. Yes, the professionalism discussion on dress was intended for the on ground instructors, so for the online instructors there needs to be other ways of showing students a high level of professionalism. Your example of your trip to Spain is exactly what the students need to experience in the course. Even though the some of the materials didn't upload properly the students were greatly impressed with the effort. This is what professionalism is all about. You are living and demonstrating it.
Gary
How you teach using your personal ethics though your work and attitude in your classroom.
Patricia - I like your comment on being calm and "professional" when your students may not be. Again, I now teaching mainly in an online environment. Communication often is misread, and reactions can sometimes be intense. Remaining the calm in the malestrom has served me well over the course of 10 years online. The calm approach almost always helps deflate the storm.
I found the section on professionalism interesting, but felt some disconnect.
I have taught and managed courses both on ground and online. I believe that dress is an important part of professionalism on a residential campus, but online... not so important (unless we add cameras).
Professionalism in other areas becomes even more important for the online environment. Quick and accurate responses to e-mails, quick and detailed grades, more than required interaction in discussion boards all play into how students perceive me as an instructor. As an example, I let my class know that I would be presenting a paper in Spain, and would be out of the country for 5 days. I also let them know I would attempt to stay in contact while I was gone. I was able to get Internet connection at my hotel, and stayed in contact daily, along with a live session. I was disappointed in the live session as some of my materials would not upload properly. However, on the student evaulations, the students were repeatedly impressed that I stayed in contact while out of the country.
This is just a small part of instructional professionalism.
Patricia,
I relate to the term 'balance'. It is important to keep sight of this in all areas of life as well as the classroom. This is an excellent way to model appropriate behavior.
Robin
I define professionalism as how you project yourself. This includes everything from outward appearance to the respect and care you give to each student. It also includes how situations are handled. This covers presentation of material to issues students have in the classroom. Professionalism can be viewed a summary of all these components.
I believe that as the instructor, it is my job to be both a part of and apart from the class. It is the balance that is required to be accessible and remain a model for the behavior you want from the students.
It is modeling the required attitude but also to present myself as being a person who can be challenged for thoughts and ideas and looked to for support and aid.
Intstructional Professionalism is a standard that you set in the classroom. This allows the students to know the standard at which they are expected to operate and behave in the class.
I teach online so I do not have a physical presence. I do project the tone of my voice.
I like to have the chat room open 5 minutes before session is to begin. I have a Power Point Presentation for each chat. I include what is expected for the assignment and review the rubric.
Sal
I would define it as being prepared for the unexpected. I understand that is not the textbook answer but it is my experience that students will throw things (metaphorically of course) at you and wait to see how you handle the topic.
Being calm and professional when you're students may not be.
Being a role model for the profession of the role of a university faculty member and the technical profession of your course content.
And finally being to say you do not know something and you are willing to admit that you will need to research the answer. Or when you are wrong, admit it and show grace when others are right, even when they are the students.
Hi Brian,
Well put. I really like your last sentence. I think it sums everything up very well. As a teacher you now have even more respect for those teachers you have had in your past. I know I do because teaching is not easy but it is rewarding in the opportunities we get to impact the lives of our students.
Gary
Instructional professionalism can be defined on multiple levels. Many don't realize the complications of teaching a group of students day in and day out. Maintaining a professional demeanor involves being able to interact, adapt, listen, and convey a multitiude of concepts to not only a "group" of people, but to each "individual" that builds it - all the while, still trying to maintain your own mental balance. As a student, I respected teachers. As a teacher, I respect them even more.
Provide maxium benefits to the learning students.
Excellent point Martha! Particularly in the soft skills needed in the classroom. As I have stated previously, I am learning that professional development involves more than just knowledge in your area of expertise.
Jim
