When students view you as their friend, they seem to think that they have some leeway that they do not have, creating problems with other students in the class. They might also think that you will take it easy on them, so they will not do their best work.
I know some teachers make "friends" with students. I just can't do this and still feel objective. My professional behavior will translate to their professionalism when they are out in the field.
Hi Julie,
You are right! As instructors, we should treat every student the same. Favoritism should not be granted to any student.
Patricia Scales
As friends, students may expect special favors and it becomes a conflict of interest. If you let special favors occur, you are doing an inservice to the student. Ultimately, it could mean that even though they passed the class because of a special favor, they are not adequately prepared for a successful career and they may fail the licensure exam as a direct consequence.
As professionals we have to set the examples for our student, by being the professional role model they look too. Students are always looking and watching us, so we have to model professionalism for them. Also, whatever field you are in, you need to look and dress the part, as this is what the students will be expected to do when they enter the industry.
This is so it doesn't blur the line between Teacher and Student. I truly believe that Familiarity breeds contempt
Hi Mary,
Distance is a must when it comes to a student/instructor relationship. The relationship should be strictly professional.
Patricia Scales
If you get too "close" to students, they might think good grades should be warranted or gifted. They might even ask for that.
Hi Heather,
Distance is key! The instructor should always act as the professional in a student/teacher relationship. Students need role models, not another friend.
Patricia Scales
A professional distance is essential to maintain respect from the students. You are not there to be their friend, but their instructor.
It is important to maintain a professional image and distance because you are there to teach them not to be a friend. If you don't maintain this professional image/distance then you are no longer the leader of the class, you are no longer in charge or in control of the classroom.
It's very important in keeping a boundary in the classrooms. Many don't understand that when you entertain unprofessional conversation or have any personal roles with the students at this time it puts you on the same level as the student. Because of this students loose respect for the instructor, they feels as though they can do what others can't, they began to call the instructor by their first names, etc. This should never be
Hi Aimi,
Sometimes we are not the most liked people in the building due to our decision making, but we have to do what is fair and make sure to always enforce rules, policies, and procedures. Consistency is key.
Patricia Scales
I feel that it is important in order for instructors so that they may continue to be objective and to maintain a professional relationship. It makes it easier when we have to make and enforce unpopular choices and or decisions with our students.
Hi Jamie,
Distance is key when there is a student/instructor relationship. The student/instructor relationship should be strictly professional.
Patricia Scales
Hi Jopha,
It is fine to be friendly to your students, but things need to be kept strictly professional.
Patricia Scales
Maintaining a professional distance from students allows the instructor to not get caught up in drama or personal issues surrounding the students. Also, the instructor will be able to refrain from sharing his or her personal information. This is an important part class management because, it allows the instructor to get the students focused on the class. The class will not be interupted and will run as the instructor intended.
Jamie Hoffman
It is important that the students require the instructor as the leader so they will respect us as their role model. Therefore, if we put ourselves in that role then it is up to the instructor to be a great role model for their students. Now there is respect from both the students and the instructor.
Maintaining a professional distance from students is an important part of class management because it allows the student the opportunity to stay focused on learning the subject matter efficiently, without getting involved in the instructor's personal business or life.
Hi Elisa,
I never struggle with this after teaching for over 23 years because I am very friendly to my students, but I do not befriend them. I keep things professional, and I make sure small talk personally is kept to a minimum. I always maintain my professionalism, regardless of the conversation.
Patricia Scales
