As a classroom instructor, you are also by default the leader of the classroom. Your image is a critical component of how your students' perceive you, and the level of respect you will have from them. Your communication, clothing, stance, punctuality, reliability, etc... all play a major role in your image. By ensuring that you carry yourself as a leader, your image as an instructor should be very positive throughout all of your classes.
Fortunately, we (instructors) can take many steps to enhance our professional image both in and out of the classroom. Through listening, considering other perspectives, stepping back from a situation to determine whether it has a moral implication, avoiding euphemisms and stereo-typing, understanding culture diversity, respecting others, respecting ourselves and how we interact with all people are just a few means we can heighten our professional image. We can keep our desk clean, stay organized, dress impeccably, and be fair and empathic. However, this image can be tainted by inconsistent non-verbal cues. Congruency between the verbal and non-verbal messages must congeal the professional image. I am very conscious in my non-verbal image in hope that my students find my genuine concern for their well-being and success.
tell them about your experence and learn their names
I think professional appearance, a sound grasp of the materials, and well as complete preparation for the class aid in creating a positive instructor image.
I agree with most everything said. One thing I believe that needs to be done to show professionalism is to lay out your expectations. Explain to the class the benefits of what they will get out of the course in positive terms that they understand. Give concrete examples of everyday experiences so that students can relate to you as a person and teacher.
I liked what I have read in this thread. Being positive is a key to instructor image but I also realize that from the very get go, instructors are being sized up by the students, after all don't we do this when we go to a presentation. We need to be prepared and on topic and motivational about our subject matter as well as bringing in professionalism to the course by dressing and acting the part.
If we expect the students to dress in uniform, then we should also be in uniform or other professional attire that reflects the industry. I also extend this to the rule of no food or drink in the classroom - if they aren't allowed food or drink, then I shouldn't have it in the classroom either. It bothers me when I see instructors who have their bottle of water or cup of coffee - "because my throat gets dry during lecture." I have never heard of anyone dropping dead by going two hours without water or coffee. If we set down rules or guidelines then we should also follow them. It should not be "do as I say, not as I do."
There are many ways to promote a positive image with students. Dressing professional, being on time and being available to answer questions. Not spending time talking about your self and your problems.
I agree, as a new instructor I understand the importance of appearance and professionalism. Students harshly judge during the first meet and greet it is imperative to look and act the part.
I believe this is one area where we must teach by example. We must model the very behaviour we are trying to teach. We can "talk" about it as much as we like but, as some of us have seen with our children, students will do as we do.
Having a professional appearance as well as a positive attitude and outlook on the class. Also becoming a role model or someone they can turn to for professional or career advice. Many of our graduates call after graduating to ask questions for formulations or advice about salons in the area that we have had personal experience with. Make sure that you take time out for you each day to refresh yourself in order to not get burnt out by all of the stress and drama brought on in the workplace whether from colleagues or students.
Hi Karen,
I love your perspective! I can tell you lead by example, and you are a super role model for your students. We should certainly be the professional that we want our students to become.
Patricia Scales
Be a role model I always dress and act in a professional manner. I try to find the positives of each student. Negative attitudes must be checked at the doorway, they are not allowed in the classroom.
It is very importat the appareance that you have at work and more important if you are an instructor , your student will respect you as a professional .
Dress for success and ALWAYS be on time.
Hi Cecilia,
We certainly must be the role model that we want our students to become. Students need us to model professionalism.
Patricia Scales
The biggest thing is attitude and not buying into a generalization of a classes attitude. My first class had a reputation and I bought in instead of being the leader and what do you know? Self fulfilling prophecy!
I have learned that my class will do as well as I expect them to do, it's up to me to remain focused and upbeat.
It's very true that as instructors, we must be the role model for our students and to one another in all aspects of professionalism. As to dress code, one thing required in our department is all instructors must wear a lab coat during classroom/ skills lab and clinical hours. This way, it really identifies us from our students...and we like it!
I like to be organized in my appearance, the appearance of my classroom, and the way I present material.
I also start each day with a greeting for each student, and on Monday I ask if they had a good weekend.
I like to be positive and supportive toward students and other instructors and facilty.
Hi Julia,
I like your outlook! Positivity is key!
Patricia Scales
