Preparation
I try to make it a point to always be in the classroom before the first student arrives. I find that if I am running late the first part of the class will be almost a total wash than if I had prepared for it. If I am late I will be rushed to get the classroom laid out for lecture, as well as lab activities. By being early I allow myself plenty of time to prepare myself and my classroom for the day.
Christinia,
Good model to follow. I like to be in the class early to "read" the mood of the class and to informally interact with the students as they come in. It is during these times I learn much about what is going on in their lives and thus am able to make adjustments in my planned instructional delivery if needed.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I totally agree with you, If I'm late for class, I feel unprepared. I find myself searching for particular items I need and don't have. This does not set a good example for your students. Being in class before your students show professionalism. I tend to be in class at least 30 minutes before class starts so if students decide to come to class early you are there. Being in class on time, coming to class prepared, show the students that you care about them and their education.
Andrew,
Good strategy to follow. You are modeling your expectations and these expectations will translate into valuable career components for your students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I will always be early simply for the point that I expect my students to be well prepared. Teach and lead by example provides the best form of modeling in my opinion.
Robert,
I agree with you about students being able to see through instructors that are not prepared. Also, it is very stressful on instructors when they aren't prepared. They know the students know they aren't prepared. So much easier to be prepared and then enjoy the time spent with students because you know you have confidence in your ability to share.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Preparation is the most important thing that we as instructors can do. I firmly believe that students can see through an instructor who has not prepared. Being in the class before they arrive and having all your material ready is what makes a good instructor.
I believe that it is imperstive to be in the classroom prior to the students arrival. It shows professionalism and sets a good example to the student. As an instructor one should always be prapared for the course. It makes for a great learning environment.
Robert,
So true on all levels. Success requires effort and preparation and this sometimes is forgotten by students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I think preperation is the key to success in the classroom. It is the same fundamentals as studying for a test, if you are not prepared there is a very good chance you will fail the test. Preparation is a universal tool to better our talents.
Well said Larry. Part of being prepared is being early to class and reay to go when the bell rings.
Scott,
This is what being a professional educator is about. Setting the tone for the class and then modeling what is expected helps the students to see the value of what is being offered in the class.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Maurice,
You have that right. We instructors have to be the learning leaders. If we aren't then it is going to be a very long class session.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Samantha,
Good way to be a professional but retain your personality and personal space.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Class preparation is the most critical portion of any block of instruction. Failure to prepare leads to , well failure. Know your subject and audience. Review and modify your training aids ias needed.Fact check yourself and have all handouts prepared before entering the classroom. Give your students a daily outline of material to be covered and the timeline it will be taught.And as metioned in this thread already arrive first and leave last so you are avalable for any student needs and issues. You are there for the student.
Preparation is so vital to the classroom. In order to attempt to have a great class, the instructor must be prepared. If not, expect chaos!
I like to volunteer in my community. Always bring my professional self to the school, no matter what is going on in my personal life... I leave that at the door.
Samantha,
What are some other ways you can be a role model to your students?
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
you want to be a role model for the students, so by showing up early it tells them how they should be wih class and work. it also helps them see how excited you are for class, thus getting them excited as well.
Lorraine,
Nothing can replace being prepared. You have more confidence as a result of knowing you are prepared and ready to share content. This confidence expands to the students as well and increases their motivation.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
