new instructor mistakes
one mistake i have seen over and over with new instructors is admiting when they are wrong. i find if i make a mistake and i own up to it and say something like"hey we all make mistakes" it lets the students see the human side of you and yes it is ok to make mistakes as long as you learn from them.
I think that it is important for us as instructors to admit our mistakes, correct our mistakes and attempt to not make the same mistakes twice.
When we admit to our students that we made a mistake, they see us as humans, but I also find that student feel more comfortable owning up to their mistakes..They feel that if we are more honest with our mistakes, they will be more honest with theirs.
Hi Jennifer,
As educators, we are extremely knowledgeable with various subject matters, but we do not know everything. The biggest mistake new instructors make is that they make it known to their students immediately that they are new. This sharing causes students to carefully examine everything that you do; they are waiting for your to mess up now knowing this.
Patricia
Admitting when you are wrong adds credibility and shows you are human. Using humor also shows that making honest mistakes are o.k.
Hi Linda,
As educators, we must realize we are far from perfect. Everyone makes mistakes. What matters, is that you learn from each mistake made.
Patricia
Everyone makes mistakes, even parents aren't perfect. Students want you to be honest first then they know you have compassion and desire to teach the class. Students know when you lie and they disrespect you if you don't say you'll look into it or try to find the answer.
There is a fine line between making a mistake and looking like you don't know what you're doing. If I don't know the answer, I let the students know I'll look into it & then get back to them at the next class. So yes, humor, diplomacy and confidence combined tend to smooth things over.
There is only one person I can think of who is perfect, and He is not of this earth.
Of course we make mistakes, being humorous and allowing the students to get in the mood of helping you correct the mistake goes a long way in gaining respect from the class.
Hi Scott -
Excellent observation! I've seen many people do this and I think the easiest way to gain respect of students is to let them know that you are human, while your standards may be high, everyone is prone to making mistakes.
Bobbi Bricker
I believe that you should be able to laugh at yourself to prove that you are capable.
Hi Scott,
I am like you...it is so much more easier to admit when you are wrong, after all we all make mistakes. Accept that you have made a mistake and move forward.
Patricia
