Avoiding mistakes is key...it show the student that u are knowledgeable about the topic u are teaching.
However if the students pitch in to help, u can also let them understand that not every day will u be at your 'best'...u certainly make a conscious effort, and this somehow motivates them to continue to do better.
Your example of the parenting experience as it relates to teaching adults is an excellent one! Parents and teachers alike do make mistakes as do children and students. By relating that we are human as are they, they can become more open to the fact that even though 100% is the goal in life as a student, the actual goal is to learn something new that will be applicable both professionally and as one ages.
How people handle their mistakes is key. Shoving them under the carpet may seem to solve the issue but this is not sustainable nor educational for life.
Demonstrating the right way to handle these issues will go along way. What do you think?
The first thing that all instructors must realize is that they are human first before anything and with that being said everyone makes mistakes---there is not one perfect person and it is alright to make a mistake just try to learn from your mistake and not continue to make the same mistakes over and over.
Hi Kathy,
Great practices to put into use. You are definitely on point. Students frown upon favoritism, and the classroom is certainly not the place to share your personal problems.
Patricia
I can make sure that I am fair and consistent with everyone in the way I treat them. I can give each student equal time to speak and express opinions, and not just call on the most outgoing students all the time. I can be professional, but human at the same time. And leave my personal problems at the door.
Good lesson plans and preparation. It is very embarrassing as an insturctor to be called on delivering wrong information, not to mention a disservice to your students. I avoid this by developing structured lesson plans and researching the lecture topics thoroughly. Being a librarian by training I keep my lap top on-line and close at hand during class. Conveying wrong information is the absolute last thing I want to do.
Since teaching math involves solving quite a few problems on the white board, I encourage my students to speak up if they think I am making a mistake. It allows me to model how to handle the situation, identify my mistake and then correct it in a professional manner.
Hi Maureen,
You certainly can learn from your mistakes. Use each mistake as a lesson learned and try not to make the same mistake twice.
Patricia
This is so important, especially in a career college. You also can teach by your own mistakes.
Thank you for that statement! I know other instructors that almost brag about their students as their friends. It sometimes makes me feel as though I am not as popular with my students as she is with hers. You have reaffirmed my belief that I should not be friends with my students. There is a difference between friendship and rapport.
Hi Elizabeth,
If it did not work the first time, things need to be put in place to make sure it works the next time. Preparation is a must. Get with seasoned instructors if there is a need.
Patricia
Preparation is always the best way to avoid mistakes, but also, one way to avoid future mistakes is by taking notes after each lesson as to what went well and what didn't for the next time around. It won't work just to write them down but will if looked at before teaching that lesson again or a similar lesson again.
Hi Douglas,
I have seen that most of your new/newer instructors either struggle with trying to be too nice or trying to make their mark by being extremely tough. It is hard for new/newer instructor to find a happy median.
Patricia
I think that the issues of self image are very important. I am enrolled in a PhD program and I can see that some of the instructors want to be loved by their students. I am older than most of my peers and see the need for connection that they strive for as a potential pitfall. I think that the course material covered this very well.
Lack of preparation is another key area. Starting on time, ending on time, and having the work ready to go such as technology rehearsed, handouts prepared or video cued up, sets a very proper tone.
I must say that I especially like the videos that reinforce the other topics. This is some of the best online instruction that I have ever received.
I enjoyed this module. It addressed many of my concerns as a new instructor. I will definately heed the advice to "over" prepare for each class session.
Hi Jody,
You are right! Even seasoned instructors mess up from time to time. We are all human. Learn from each mess up, take responsibility, and move forward. As long as you live, you will make a mistake from time to time.
Patricia
The most important way to avoid mistakes is to have a good plan. Everyone is going to make mistakes - the next step is to admit them and follow through on correcting the mistake.
Detailed planning will help minimize mistakes. It's like having a map when you take a trip. Even veteran teachers take wrong turns! You want to set a clear course at the beginning of class - my mentor used to tell me "start the way you want to finish" You can be in control without losing creativity and student freedom.
Hi Marsha,
Absolutely! Some students have great information to share that is very applicable. Every opportunity that presents itself utilize your student as a resource.
Patricia
Many of us teach adult learners and they also have expertise in some areas. don't be afraid to use a student's expertise to answer an issue you may not be as familiar with. This establishes respect for them as individuals and acknowledges their experience in the real world. The class will see the meeting as an exchange rather than just "I tell you what to do".
Hi Sara,
I agree! Some mistakes can be avoided by preparing properly. If a mistake is made, learn from it and move on.
Patricia
