Michael,
You make a good point about professionalism. Students may have acquired or at least observed behavior that was less than professional and so they see no problem with such behavior. The need to change that perception needs to be reinforced over and over, through not only words but also actions just as you say.
Gary
Most, not all of our students have previously worked in "jobs" where professionalism may or may not have been deemed important. The best method that I know of to teach professionalism is by "leading by example". Proper attire, respect, the nonuse of slang and a proper lexicon not only portray the individual as a professional, but also builds pride in the work or service they provide.
I define instructional professionalism by showing interest and concern to my students and not crossing my personal or professional ethics. At times life influences will distract students, as an instructor we should listen and observe. It is not our problem to solve a students' life problem but we can guide them to the proper avenue for assistance.
eat,sleep,walk,talk and know the product your teaching.
In my opinion Instructional Professionalism consists of encouraging students’ attendance, my work attire, communication with traditional and non traditional students inclusive of adult learners, participation in ongoing professional training and development, developing strong lesson plans, mastering the ability to engage students and use various instructional strategies for different learning styles.
My experience is to show professionalism in strong voice and eye contact with all the students. Make sure that I arrive early and have my board ready for students to read what the objective is for the day, IA's, key words and future assignments. Insure my appeareance is an inital view for the students from scrubs, shoes, hair and weather you even shaved that morning. Do not studder in you presentation. Deliever your instructions with authority.
Shonna,
Thank you for these comments about professionalism. They express what we instructors need to always keep in the front of our minds as we approach the classroom.
Gary
Shonna,
Thank you for these comments about professionalism. They express what we instructors need to always keep in the front of our minds as we approach the classroom.
Gary
I believe that instructor professionalism begins with understanding first and foremost what the role of an instructor is. Why are we instructors, what is our goal as an instructor, what can we bring to our classrooms to help our students achieve the goals they have set forth for themselves. After understanding our role, we then need to understand and practice professionalism on all levels. We need to be honest and respectful of our institutional rules and regulations as well as with our students. We need to be on time to class (arriving well before our students do). We need to be professionally dressed and always communicate in a professional manner. We are the mentors for our students and it is very important that we are consistent in our efforts to demonstrate professionalism at all times. Never "taking a break"
Instructional Professionalism is demonstrated by showing enthusiasm, caring, and knowledge of the subject. Physical presentation of yourself and the manner of speaking is of utmost importance.
Also to be a positive role model to the student!
Warm and caring, inspiring, prepared and knowledgable, clean and neat appearance. Replicate what might be expected of them in their career choice. Expect high standands because each will succeed.
Instructional Professionalism is always striving to be professional in your dress, conduct, and handling of student situations. The results of these efforts will determine the respect of your students and your fellow instructors.
Tamara,
Right you are. This is what being a professional should be about--being prepared and ready to go.
Gary
Pete,
Good way to define instructional professionalism. Your definition hits upon all of the key points. Thanks for sharing it with us.
Gary
The instructor should be not only early to class, but have everything prepared a head of time, copies, demos, outlines, etc. So the beginning of class can flow right in to an productive learning experience!
My definition of Instructional Professionalism is simply breaking the two word’s apart and using the common definition of each.
Professionalism – Is the actions, attitude, appearance, commitment, beliefs one does ALL the time. I hate ‘Do as I say not as I do’ someone is either a true professional or a pretender.
Instructional - is an adjective of Instruction which is the act, practice, or profession of instructing {teaching} to give detailed directions.
I would define it as your presence. How you present yourself to the class by being on time and dressing professional. By presenting yourself in this manner you are showing your students just how they should dress and act in a professional manner.
Killarney ,
Well said and I am sure you are going to be successful with your first course on your own. I wish you much teaching success as you have much to offer your students.
Gary
When teaching, you must always be a leader by teaching by example. If I am not projecting professionalism with my actions, I am not a leader, and students will learn the wrong things that I may improperly project. An instructor should always be above reproach. Actions speak louder than words. In fact most career institutions find that teaching by hands-on is a much more reliable way to get your point across. This goes both for professionalism, and actual career training for a specific job practice.
