The importance of Planning and Preparation
As the Faculty Development Advocate at our higher education institution, I have seen time again the downfall of new instructors because they entered their class with minimal preparation and were sorely unprepared. Preparation helps promote confidence for instructors and is often half the battle to a successful class. Is there anything worse than entering a class without all the necessary materials, lesson mapped out, topic to be covered? I would imagine student would rapidly lose respect for teachers who enter the classroom this way. I will often map out my hours in class in 30 minute increments so my time is wisely spent and the students get what they paid for.
I really have to agree, that planning and preparation leads to classroom success. I have seen and even had teachers that try and show how intelligent they are and "just wing-it", and they end up fumbling and stammering through lessons when asked unusual questions. This appearance has lead to a lack of respect and trust for the teacher and classroom.
Hi Jeff,
Tough assignment! I would try to find out if there was any curriculum content available for me to review. I would talk with the previous instructor if possible. If neither of these options were available I would sit down and draw out a master plan of what I want to accomplish in the course. Then I would prepare the first few days of lecture and activities so I could get the class off to a good start while working hard on developing additional content. I would also reflect back on courses that I had taken that relate to this course and see what I can pull up in my memory to help me fill in the blanks. No matter what I would approach the classroom with confidence (actual or not) and draw the students into the learning process. Once that is done then progress in learning can be made.
Gary
How would you handle a situation where you are given a last minute class assignment?
Hi Patricia,
Good way to cover your bases as you plan for a new class. Things like not enough textbooks can become big things to students to the point that the class doesn't get off to a good start. Having a plan like you do helps to overcome those kinds of problems.
Gary
Hi Carolyn,
You have given some very good advice for beginning instructors. I remember back to my days as a new instructor and I know one of my big fears was that I would run out of material and not know what to do with the students. The simple answer to this fear was preparation, just as you mention. Without it there is nothing there. The students need to know they have an instructor that cares about them and their success and is willing to work hard to prepare content and activities that will help them achieve their career goals.
Gary
I start preparing by first checking with the bookstore to make sure the text book will be there for the students. if there is a shortage of textbooks, or an anticipated delievery date, i come up with plan be in case the book does not arrive in time. it is important that my student's time is not wasted in the classroom. they pay for so many hours of classroom time, and i plan to use every mintue.
I agree, I make sure there is enough time for preparation before begining my classes, and I make sure to have all the materials I will need to help the students meet their objectives.
