I complete understanding of the subject matters is important but being focused and organized on the class and the students are essential. Dressing the part and speaking the part are key factors. The majority of human commuinication is non-verbal, if you don't feel it, it shows.
Again I think it goes back to looking at it from the students point of view,put yourself in that place and see if the instructor is being professional,is the image positive and so on.
Another step would be to watch your speech,practice so not to stumble on words during lecture,pronounce words correctly.
Let the students know that you to are human and correct your mistake with humor and a story.
Hi Rebecca,
What an impressive list! This list will surely allow your students and colleagues to label you as a professional with a positive instructor image.
Patricia
1. Maintain professional behavior
2. Be positive
3. Encourage students daily
4. Be fair and balanced in all situations
5. Know your stuff!
Hi Jan,
That's right, we must be the professional that we want our students to become.
Patricia
Hi Marcia,
I really like your outlook pertaining to having a positive instructor image. I can tell based on your response that you lead by example.
Patricia
To present a positive instructor image you need to be articulate, especially in your subject matter, assertive, so the students know you are in control, concerned about your students and passionate about your career (because students know if you are only in it for the money), dressed neatly & appropriately for your work site, flexible, so your students see that every day in nursing is not the same, organized, have a good sense of humor and lead by example.
Students look to the instructor as a template of what is expected of them as students and as professionals. As instructors we must model how those in the real world should (ideally) behave. Being prepared, organized, informed, dressed appropriately and professionally is a "must" at all times.
Hi Jeff,
Great list! Appearance really matters. We should watch how we communicate with our students. Most of our students only know slang and text messaging language, we need to be the professional example in this case and communicate properly. Having fun while learning is the perfect mixture.
Patricia
Hi Joyce,
Based on your response I can tell you lead by example, and you exemplify a high level of professionalism. I like your outlook on having a positive instructor image.
Patricia
As an instructor, you must keep it on a professional level, by dressing professional, focusing on the subject at hand and not trying to hard to become overly friendly with your students. Keep it positive with your students and have a positive rapport with them. Be respectful and gain respect. Just smile and be your confident self and remain in control by being prepared.
1. Dress proffessionally. Wear clothing that epitomizes your profession.
2. Be physically fit. Being fit sends a message that you are well balanced, and attuned to detail. Not to mention we have a horrible obesity epedimic in this country which is driving health care costs through the roof. A starting point to curbing this epidemic is from leaders at every level and profession to set the example. Enough said.
3. Speak with authority and properly. Avoid slang terminology- at least initially. First impressions...
4. Maintain a balanced sense of humor. Do not take yourself or the course too serious. Thanks
Hi Genevieve,
Students examine instructors very closely! Students will pick up on every thing that we do! Let's lead by example.
Patricia
Hi Sara,
Every student loves it when the instructor knows them by name. Students feel important when they are known by name. Instructors should be the professional that we want our students to become. Lead by example.
Patricia
Hi Sherry,
Preparation is key! Students love clarity and knowing exactly what is expected of them.
Patricia
I think the best way to create a positive instructor image is to be prepared and clear about what they will be learning in the beginning so students know what they are expected to learn.
Be a role model and learn names! If you want the students to act a certain way, allow them to follow your lead! Be professional, dress professional, and don't bring in complaints. Deal with students fairly and they will respond positively. Also, be sure to get to know the student's names as soon as possible.
Always dress accordingly, always keep a positive attitude. Students pick up on this
Hi James,
Students quickly realize when you are prepared and confident. The moment they find out that you lack confidence, and you are unprepared they will lose respect for you.
Patricia
