Teaching something that you have not done before.
I come across a few times in my teaching career that we are covering materials that we have not done ourselves, but we need to instruct this information to the students. I research as much as I can and prepare an assignment that I can manage and instruct to the class and show that I do have some knowledge then none at all.
I also find that teaching a new subject or topic can be very empowering. It feels good to walk into a class prepared and to do a good job of presenting new material. It also keeps us fresh as instructors and helps us to be motivated ourselves.
Hi Paul,
I never teach a class without doing every assignment, project, test, quiz, etc. that the students are required to do. As an instructor you should always do the work students are required to do so that you are familiar with what they are doing.
Patricia
Absolutely. One approach I take is to look up what assignments they have for that class, and then try to complete the assignment myself. That way I can iron out any difficult-to-explain concepts because I've encountered them.
Hi Shametra,
I know time is of the essence. Do the very best that you can with the time you have to make sure you are prepared. When I started teaching 22 years ago, I spent many weekends and late week nights preparing. The initial preparation is what is so time consuming. The more you teach a class, little preparation time is needed.
Patricia
Being a new instructor, this has happened to me a time or two. Preparation is the key, but I have very little time to do so.
Hi Anneke,
Whenever you have never done something and have to teach it, preparation is key. You never do not want your students to know that you are not knowledgeable about the subject matter. Do whatever needs to be done so that you are fully prepared.
Patricia
