Hi Angela,
This is where a lot of instructors have problems, they do not know how to find balance in the student/teacher relationship.
Patricia
I find when I arrive each day with a smile on my face and a friendly greeting to my students that it effects the whole class though out the day.
Hi Tierra,
Sticking to rules, policies, procedures, etc. is key! Students want to and need to have structure.
Patricia
Maintaining a high level of professionalism BALANCED with being real and approachable.
Hi Alethea,
Mistakes are bound to happen. No one is perfect, simply be a professional across the board and your students will respect you just the same.
Patricia
I understand the positive image stuff, but what if you find the course material boring and are really just going throught the motions of teaching. Some of the grading techniques used at this place are not compatible with the information being taught. I come in with a I don't care atitude on some days. I like to instruct and find it rewarding, but, this one class in particular is a flop.
Hi Jill,
You sound a lot like me. I like your outlook on a positive instructor image. I am sure you are looked upon as a great mentor and super role model.
Patricia
When I introduce myself at the first class, I tell them how and why I got into the field myself, a little bit about my experience, why I got my certification in the field and that I still work in the field so they know that I am knowledgeable about the subject matter and that my knowledge is current. I also advise them my contact information and that I am only a text away if they have any questions/concerns
Hi Linda,
We must lead by example. Students need us to show professional behavior so that they can learn the right way from us.
Patricia
Be prepared, organized, and self-confident. We all make mistakes but having done the above we will have gained the respect of our students regardless of the mistakes.
I show the students that I really care about them in every way. I show interest in their academics first,and then show interest in their life, career goals and life struggles. I believe my reward is that the students have a positive image of me. They reflect back to me like a mirror. Of course, there are the tips given in this lesson that I follow, as well. The list would be: dress professionally, establish yourself a capable and educated,learn their names, be prepared, be on time, try to minimize mistakes, but, laugh when you do make mistakes (and their are times!!!)
Hi Sandy,
You should never expect things from your students that you are not willing to do yourself.
Patricia
Some of the things one must do is to lead by example. You can't expect students to be on time if you come late. Dress professional. Get homework back to students in a timely fashion. Keep the lines of communication open.
Hi Marko,
These things are must in order to display a positive instructor image. Students watch us carefully to ensure we are exceling in all areas professionally.
Patricia
Professionalism, attire, ethics and good habits.
Creating a positive instructor image starts from day one. Instructors must set the tone from the first day of class and stick to it throughout the course.
Along with dressing appropriately and modeling professional behavior, I have a poster hanging strategicly in my room so that I can see it directly as I sit at my desk. My students can see this poster as well because it's next to the whiteboard. The poster says "Business Teachers Make Their Students' Success Their Business."
On the first of my class, I tell my students that I appreciate them coming to class everyday As soon as they walked into the classroom on this first day, they got an "A" in the course. Thers is only one way their grade will change. The rest is up to them.
I also like this Idea, I try to remember everyones names sometimes that is difficult to however I agree it is very important. Also the class will feel you see them as individuals and not just a name in a grade book
Hi Jonathan,
Great response! I can tell you are a winning professional, and you serve as role model for your students. Continue to lead by example!
Patricia
Referencing business courses, dressing appropriately, being on time, beginning class on time etc not only sets a standard but shows a positive image.
