Hi Ron I think being a positive instructor is being pro active and not re-active to situations.I also think being yourself, talking to the students one on one, keeping the conversation about the content at hand, and not veering off is important. For example, whenever I get a new class their is always that few number of students who like to ask me if Im married or have kids, just trying to make small talk. I answer the question and redirect the conversation about school, I dont ask them if they have kids or their marital status because I dont want to get to know them personally but professionally.
Hi Dennis,
It is clear that you have a positive instructor image. I am sure you display all the things you have mentioned in your response. Continue to be a great role model for our students.
Patricia
A positive image is crucial to success in the classroom. Being on time, dressing professionally, being organized, grading on time, talking with students using appropriate language at all times, being fair and consistent with all students, not being their buddies/pals is important and sends clear messages to students as to how they can and will interact with you. I found that setting these clear professional boundaries with students, helps you to be a great instructor.
On the first day of class, I think it's important for the instructor to justify his/her presence in the classroom. The instructor doesn't need to tell his/her life story, but it's important for the students to know that the instructor has the education and training that are needed to teach the course.
I've had instructors who never really introduced themselves to their classes. Some students are left to wonder about this instructor's background and training.
One of the most important things in creating a positive instructor image is to dress the part. I teach medical assisting and I try to be sure I feel and look "put together" everyday. I wear scrubs and clean tennis shoes. This helps the students to understand it is important to present themselves to their patients in a positive way.
I think the most important thing is to display confidence. It conveys to the students that I know what I am talking about and I am confident in my knowledge and how I can help them learn. The other thing is to be prepared. I have handouts, the syllabus, expectations, etc., everything I need to fill up a four hour class on the first day when they often do not have the required reading material yet. I think it is important to be friendly and approachable but to establish who is in charge from the beginning, that it is me and not them.
1. Be prepared
2. Call each student by name
3. Smile and have a positive attitude
4. Be approachable
Hi Suzie,
Respect is a two-way street. The students must respect the instructor, and the instructor must respect the student. Remember, we are all adults.
Patricia
Hi Reginald,
Students monitor us in every respect. We have to be careful about our actions at all times.
Patricia
The main step for me is being professional to the up-most degree. An essential dynamic is maintaining concern for the students learning experience. Student's make a point to monitor your integrity, expertise, and your concern for their educational well-bring.
Reginald
I believe that creating a positive instructor image begins with being prepared both with course content and positive attitude. We must plan what we will deliver and carry through teaching them skills to utilize in their career fields that will empower them.
If we as instructors want to be respected we must first respect our students and provide a positive environment for learning.
Hi Rhonda,
Absolutley, there is no such thing as a stupid question. Students should made to be felt that they can ask any question they would like to.
Patricia
know what you are teaching, make sure students aware that there are no stupid questions and that yes that I am human and may make mistakes
I would put preparation at the top of the list. Showing up prepared and on time helps my own morale because I feel as though I can convey the material comfortably and without ambiguity. I believe that this positively influences how the students feel about me, and it helps them to accept me as a knowledgeable professional who can deliver the instruction that they want.
Hi Lacey,
Super response! Students really need to and want to hear about our professional experiences as to how they pertain to the subject matter. As educators we must certainly practice what we preach, being on top of our game is of the utmost importance.
Patricia
Hi Donald,
Makes a lot of sense. These things are crucial to establishing a positive instructor image. Professionalism plays a major role as well.
Patricia
I am going to use a short answer on this question . Something I learn when I first started teaching. Knowing your subject, knowing your people and knowing how to communicate.
Start class on time, be prepared subject wise & envolving student's ability to think about real life situations pertaining to the class subjects. To me that strengthens confidence & also destill in their confidence in your ability to teach the subject at hand.
I think that a great step to professional image is being timely and organized. In the online course environment, I organize my courses diligently long before the course starts. I knew precisely when I need to send emails, post announcements, grade and post discussions. This makes an impact on students. I need to be on the top of my game. I need to show them that the course moves in a deliberate and lock-step manner. Additionally, I feel that sharing relevant knowledge with students really helps them understand "why" information is important. I like to share industry knowledge beyond the textbook. Lacey Finley
Students should see their instructors as role models for their program study. The instructor should dress, be prepared and conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times.
