Jonathan,
I agree. You need to have the knowledge base from which you can share content that is accurate and timely. An instructor without this kind of base is nothing more that a "space heater" in the classroom.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I think that professionalism in the instructional field means that the instructor must do due diligence in researching and preparing the courses they teach. If one is able to answer all the students questions, it is because they have studied the material thoroughly beforehand.
Christie,
Both verbal and non-verbal communication is important for instructors to practice and perfect for the reasons that you have just listed. They form the basis for respect and rapport.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I agree, eye contract is extremly important. It lets your students know you are connecting with them. Preparation and the ability to transfer knowledge in a understandable format is a important aspect of instuctional profrssonalim as well.
Instructional professionalism is setting an example or being a model for the students that you teach.
Jasmin,
I like the way you define professionalism. It is such important part of who we are and how we model our expectations of students and your definition outlines the critical components.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I'd define it as a knowledge of one's respective discipline, an ability to choose the best methods of imparting that knowledge in a way that's accessible and relevant to the student, an awareness of how you the instructor may act as a mentor to the student, and a knack (for lack of a better word) for generating enthusiasm for the learning process.
Instructional Porfessionalism is governering your as a professional by your dressing,conduct and the way you handeling of students situation.
Instructional Professionalism is your ability to prepare and present relevant information in a way that captivates the student's attention by linking the information to real world situations, and motivating them to challenge themselves to be creative and think out of the box.
Rommel,
Right on all points. All of these areas contribute to a professional image and a standard for the students as they develop their own identity as career professionals.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
By meeting certain standards of dress, conduct and behavior in the classroom to serve as a role model for students in their respective fields.
Jay,
You are right about modeling behavior both inside and outside of the classroom. We are on stage no matter where we are in the school and in many cases in the community as well.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I like the definition offered up on the module. I'd like to emphasize the importance of style both in and out of the classroom. If students knows you are genuinely interested in helping them succeed, and that comes across in your style before, during, and after class, I think that contributes to one's instructional professionalism.
I think instructional professionalism is displayed by maintaining good classroom control and organization, while carrying oneself as one would while working. Our students are required to dress as a professional in their future fields (scrubs, white shoes, hair pulled back, short nails), and conduct themselves in a manner which portrays a professional. The instructor must comply by these policies as a role model, dressing the part is essential. I have seen instructors with long brightly colored nails, colored sneakers and large hoop earrings, and believe me the students take notice.
One has to be very careful in trying to understand the implications of the author. It is very easy to misunderstand the author. Interpertations of the subject matter is of great importance. I order to truly understand the authors point of view would be to ask questions and good indepth questions will enable one to get a better insight into the Author's mind.
I arrive early and well prepared for my class. I dress well and comfortable so that I feel confident in front of the class. I also follow all rules that I ask the students to follow (no food, no cell phones, etc.)
John,
You captured the essence of professionalism with your second sentence. This establishes a foundation for the students so they can see how people in their field should conduct themselves.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I believe the students should see our professional image in the classroom and outside the classroom setting. The way we dress, our conduct and the way we handle our students problem or situations is always viewed by the level of respect the student will give. The student should see we are all human this include acknowledge mistake if it is should occur.
Definition requires quantifying something that really has not objective qualities. However, I would best sum up professionalism as setting in yourself an example that others wish to emulate. It can vary in range from appearance to technical expertise, with a wide variety based on the subject. Certainly, professionalism within my crew-served weapons courses would nowhere near meet the same definition as my nursing courses.
The ability of the instructor to create a place were learning and creativity of the subject matter and his/her passion comes forth.
