New Comer Mistake
Bragging about what you have done in the particular field you are instructing on is definitely a major mistake. Personally, I feel as though students feel as though you think you have all of the answers because of this.
One common mistake I see in college is the beginning instructors that take great lengths of class time telling students they are working on their PhD's or have one. Students have stated that the mentioning of this one or two times is good to hear and the person in front of the class is knowledgeable. A barrier is created when the instructor continually mentions this fact and tells students that they have to earn their degrees and students have to do the same - students interpretation is " I got one and you don't". This is definitley the type of rapport that an instructor new or old should NOT create. Bragging sometimes becomes a "How Great Thou Art" speech. I see this in many teahers who feel they can compensate for lack of knowledge of text material and try to suppliment it with worthless war stories. If an instructor provides a story - show how it is applicable to the text material or the topic being discussed. As an adult learner, I am not impressed with braggers with experience because I can pick up on BS or those who exagerate a situation. Time is important and my time should not be wasted - maybe students can get more out of class with less time in class? I am interersted in how the information can improve my application of course or topic content. Class should not be about the teacher, but about the student.
I agree that if you do not regard it as bragging it will be something they can relate to you on. I think if the students know you have been in the field for X amount of years and you express your passion for it they will want to learn more from you so they can have that passion too.
Hi Cameron,
If you do not regard it as bragging and do not come across as bragging, most students welcome the information based on your personal experience as it relates to the real world and the lesson. Experience really is the best teacher.
Patricia
