maintaining a professional distance from students is an important part of class management because students need to see professionalism modeled in order to know what is appropriate. they need to see how to handle themselves professionally when faced with many different types of situations, situations so that they are better prepared with tools to handle the unexpected
Maintaining a professional distance is key to class management because it sets the "tone" for the class. In teaching adult students, you have to ensure you keep the distance or your students can easily lose respect for you or never gain it. Your job is to instruct them not be their friend.
Just like in any position of authority (i.e. police officer, minister, judge, etc.) that professional distance protects the student and the instructor. Much like my mom used to tell me "I am your parent, not your friend; however, there is a friendship between parent and child." Her meaning is that when it comes down to the "serious" issues, she is still mom and her job is to ensure I learn (through necessary actions favorable or unfavorable to the child) and that I am protected to the best of her ability. This can be applied to the teacher's role.
In Maintaining a professional image creates a great learning environment. Keeping the distance is part of classroom managment and policy and procedures of a professional environment. When it comes to the student grades,coursework,in keeping a professional distance does not interfere with the grading process for the students in the course.
To help create a rapport with the students but the same time not to undermine instructor's authority.
Can be done by mutual respect for one another, listen to student's opinion and feeback; helps nuture growth in instruction.
Because it sets the tone for the class and establishes the necessary boundaries. Students need to understand that they are not your peer. Instructors who do not have the proper boundaries established are surely to lose control of the class.
There is a fine line between showing you are human and bringing the students into your life. we are trying to train people to be professional it is important thaat the example comes from us.
Michael
By maintaining a distance you are showing a professional attitude towards your students. You should be concerned about the student's issues, but only at a professional level.
Hi Deb,
Distance is key when there is a student/instructor relationship involved.
Patricia Scales
With professional distance I believe my students will have respect for my ability to teach. This sets an image for them of my professionalism as well.
Hi Mark,
I concur! Boundaries must be established so that students know that you are in full control.
Patricia Scales
As instructors, if you don’t model professionalism the students will lose all respect for and your authority.
Crossing boundaries is a major infraction. Instructors walk a fine line between maintaining professionalism as an authority figure that is to be respected and an approachable, friendly person who can show interest in their students. This is a vital part of classroom management as it creates an enviroment that is most conducive for learning.
In many ways, being an instructor is like being a parent. While your children may complain about the discipline, etc. that you provide as a parent, they actually derive comfort in knowing that you are keeping them safe and on track in life with the discipline that you provide. I believe students view their instructors in a similar perspective. So, when you cross the line from being an instructor (i.e., classroom parent)to being one of them (i.e., their friend, peer, etc.), the students are actually disappointed that they have loss that element of stability that you provided as an instructor.
To answer this question, I reflect on my previous work experience. I worked in a bank for many years and there were policies in place for this situation. If a customer became a friend, you were not allowed to be their banker. I had many of my employees ask why we had such a policy and many of my answers paralleled the answers found in this forum. I always explained that this policy is in place to protect them. It wouldn't allow them to be accused of favoritism or any other unprofessional behavior.
Just like the banking industry, it is important to keep a professional relationship when working with your students.
You are creating a professional work environment every day and your students will emulate your behaveior.
Hi James,
Have them assist those who are struggling. Even adult students like being helpers.
Patricia Scales
Treating every student the same makes it harder to teach at times though. If an excelling student get done before everyone else and we reward them by getting the next assignment or doing something else. The others have a obligation now to get it done faster or sooner to be up there with that student. Making the work and answers not complete and or right. What should be done with the student who excels? Just make them wait till everyone else is done?
I truly agree with this. We have to keep our roles well defined. While I may be a nice person, I am there as an authority figure and must maintain that.
Boundaries must be set in order to keep from appearing you have favorites or students may think you will expect more from them which can add pressure.
