respect
encourage respect
We should never allow a student to "lose face". This is destructive to both student and instructor.
Hi Joseph,
Respect is critical for adult learners. A couple of other things you can do is to listen when they speak. Many instructors will ask students to respond to a question or present some information and they sit off to the side an grade papers, look at something in the room and generally display "non-attending" behavior. This sends a real message to students that they are not saying anything of value. Also, give students feedback as quickly as possible on their work. Feedback shows that you have taken the time to look at their work and that you have given them your professional opinion on that work. This shows you respect their handing in the material on time and that you are going to add to that respect by giving them the material back with your input as quickly as possible.
Gary
I address all of the students by Mr. or Ms. I want everyone in my classroom to feel like they are respected. Are there any other suggestions?
Hi Thomas,
Excellent point. We can never make fun of students of any age. When working with adult students we have to be even more careful since they often times are on the fence in terms of staying in school anyway so a remark that can be seen as hurtful is enough excuse for them to leave school. By making jokes about ourselves we are showing we are human and in no way does joking like this demean our status as educators. I have had some instructors call me on this since they feel that instructors are to always been seen in a light of non-joking, non-mistake making individuals. Well in real life this simply isn't so. We all make mistakes and we can turn those mistakes into teachable moments by admitting them, making a joke and moving on. This gives instructors a connection between themselves and the students.
Gary
Encouraging respect is imporatnt in the classroom. It means being kind and thoughtful of students--never making jokes or comments at their expense. An instructor can make fun of himself or herself. but little jokes about students can backfire.
What you do and what get.
Treat them respect and professional...
Hi Andrew,
By being professional. Be prepared and respectful of the students. Show them that you care about their success in your course and that you will support them in their efforts. Develop rapport with the students to so they see you as a mentor of their future success and respect will follow.
Gary
What is the best way to gain respect?
Hi Michaelle,
This is very true especially when the students come into our programs after having been let go from their jobs. These students are in need of being rebuilt in terms of self confidence and esteem.
Gary
We need to carry respect a step further and encourage students to have respect for THEMSELVES as well.
Hi Sara,
You hit on a key point. Respect for fellow students is very important because upon graduation students are going to find themselves working with all kinds of people and they need to know how to work and communicate with them.
Gary
It is not only to respect the student, but, to also encourage the other students to have respect for each other. Sometimes, this can be quite challenging.
Hi Joseph,
Knowing student names shows respect and respect helps to build rapport. As you say this leads to a win win situation for everyone.
Gary
RESPECT FOR THE STUDENT IS TANTAMOUNT FOR AN EFFECTIVE ENVIRONMENY. INSTRUCTORS SHOULD KNOW ALL STUDENTS BY NAME, NOT FIRST NAME BUT MR. MRS. ETC... THIS WILL IN TURN GARNISH RESPECT FOR THE TEACHER AS WELL. A WIN WIN SITUATION.
