As instructors we are constantly under scrutiny. If we keep a professional distance then our students will not feel that they have one up on us, or feel like they can manipulate a situation.
You need to be looked at as the role model of the class. If you present yourself in that nature, you can maintain a professional image.
I agree. And an additional benefit is that our professional dress / conduct can help us focus on our professional role-- we may also be a spouse, parent, athlete, artist, etc; but when we are dressed for our profession, we place our professional service above all the other items on our mind / in our lives. This dedication reinforces success for both ourselves and our students.
Our students looked to us a examples of what and what not to do, so it is very important we maintain a professional image, but so a little of our human nature.
Your statement "Lead by Example" is the epitomy of teaching.
As noted in other replies, students are watching us and are very perceptive and receptive.
Maintaining a professional distance from students establishes that there is no sense of partiality among or with students; or, more importantly, a "perceived" partiality.
As a role model, students may not consider you their best friend if you are somewhat removed; however, they will respect you in the long run.
I think it is important in order to maintain the respect of your students and maintain professional rapport. Students, even those who are'nt yours, should be able to recognize who the instructor of the class is. By composing ourselves professionally,looking professional, and keeping that distance, we will earn the respect of our students.
You need to model to the students a professional image so they will respect you and, in turn, learn to deal with people in a professional way.
This is important so that students gain and keep a mutual respect for the knowledge to be taught by the instructor. Having the distance teaches the student that the instructor is someone of authority as opposed to a friend to hang out with.
If an instructor does maintain a professional image with students in their class room environment, it may be perceived as favoritism by other students.
It is always difficult to enforce professionalism among students today considering all the different body piercings, and other type of body art. Students consistently need to be made aware that they need to maintain a professional image at all times; which includes covering up the body art.
As a younger instructor it is extremely important for me to maintain a professional image. The students see me as a leader and not a friend. Once that line is crossed there is no going back. Students will take advantage of the gray area. A professional image shows that you take pride in what you do and shows them what a "professional" looks/acts like.
Hi Jimly,
A lot of our students learn about professionalism while they're in school, and they carry these traits/ways into the workplace.
Patricia
Hi Lynne,
Treat every student the same! Being fair to all is the best way.
Patricia
Hi Rene,
Absolutely! Students expect us to behave professionally.
Patricia
Hi Lillian,
It sure does. Boundaries must be set. Students should not be allowed to cross the line.
Patricia
Hi Roy,
You are on point! If we do not control the classroom, the students will.
Patricia
Hi Marybeth,
Absolutely, paint the picture that you want your students to become... a true professional.
Patricia
Hi Lisa,
Absolutely! Personal relationships are not good in the education area. This type of relationship can cause way too many problems.
Patricia
Hi Sandra,
Students tend to pick up on this type of action quickly, and they will begin to complain and become really concerned. As educators we must treat EVERYONE the same.
Patricia
