New to instructing
I am new to instructing... Any helpful tips??
Benjamin,
You are on your way so when the transition comes it is going to be much easier for everyone.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Dr. Meers,
Thank you very much for the prompt reply and for the suggestions. I can definitely do a few of the items you suggested before actually taking over a class. I am already trying to insert myself into lab times by offering friendly advice and answering what questions I can. Thank You.
Benjamin,
One of the ways you can do this is to assume some leadership or instructional role before the other instructor steps out. You might present a mini-unit, lead a discussion, case study or small group. In reality you will be co-teaching for a while and then the other instructor can step out and the students will immediately shift their attention to you since they already know and have gotten to see your instructional style.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I am in the same situation as Cesia was a few months ago. I definitely feel I am on the right track. The College in which I will be instructing has amazing resources and definitely makes sure that each instructor is completely prepared before taking on a class. Part of this preparation, however, is shadowing a class, so the whole "what to do on the first day" I feel is kind of moot. I have already met the students and am already beginning to form a relationship with them (doing my best to make this professional). When it is time for me to take over the class, is there anything specific I should do to make sure that the transition from the current teacher (my supervisor) to me will be seamless and effective?
Ditto on being. I appreciate the info on where resources are at.
Judith,
Most of the resource sites I have used and are familiar with are focused on subject areas and how to deliver content in them. Also, look at some community college instructor support sites and you will see there are a lot of instructional resources given. I wish you success as you start this new adventure.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
i am new to instructing as well and right now I am trying to concentrate on learning where all my classroom on line resources are available and the requirements I need to complete for the company as a new hire. I appreciate the modules I've seen such as ED101, it does supply helpful information. Does anyone know if there is a Module or Forum that will inform a new instructor on where to go to find a list of approved available resources used in the classroom and lab environments? Thank you.
Cesia,
One of the ways is through the example you set for your students. By being model for your students you can demonstrate your professionalism via your dress, conduct, organization and interaction with students. Establishing yourself as the learning leader you will be able to show your students that your are worthy of the position that you occupy. Also share examples of from your field experience where you used the course content that you are currently covered. This will increase the value of the content and increase student engagement.
You are on the right track with your efforts and you are going to settle into your instructional style and be an instructor that students respect.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Hello,
I too am a new instructor. I feel like I'm on the right track, but it's hard being a few steps ahead of my students at all times. I am only a few years older than most of my students and sometimes I feel like they can see right through me. I have several years of technical experience and I am very confident in my technical skills within my field. How can I approach my confidence level in front of my class, without being overly confident and trying to compensate with our age similarities?
Duanna,
Be organized as you approach the classroom or lab. Have confidence in your experience in the field and that you can share your passion for your field with your students. As you start your new class do introductions and an ice breaker so you and your students can get comfortable with comfortable with each other. Then you can start sharing your course policies and requirements via the syllabus. By then you should be feeling like you are ready to be the learning leader.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
