Yes, I feel when an instructor shows their students respect, the students are encouraged to do their best. They strive to meet the instructors' expectations and tend to be more engaged in the course material. Being engaged in the material means they come to class prepared to participate in class discussions, and they submit well developed assignments on time. I love when students show they are interested in the material and enjoy being part of the class.
My motto, to be firm yet fair and I treat everyone the same but differently. The great classroom manager is a leader. To daily face a diverse population of students (all with private and personal issues) is demanding. Put on that happy face and lead your students, I have been know to say " I challange my students not to learn"
Stay on top of the clock as well, start class on time and end class on time, and be ready!
The instructor needs to treat the students fairly yet must be flexible enough to help the students with their different needs.
What has seemed to work best for the most successful instructors has been to set their expectations at the beginning of the course (regarding cell phones, talking, breaks) and then stick to it. This has not seemed to rub students the wrong way at all, and this is evident by the high scores these instructors receive on their course/instructor evaluations. Also, just like students, instructors should be open to new concepts and ideas. It is not uncommon for US to learn something from the students at some point during each class.
Scott, great post and not much more I can add. The point I do want to draw forward is there are no bad students only bad teachers. If any instructors find themselves totally drained at the end if each day they may want to consider a new profession. Taking on the challenges you list here should be invigorating and provide the uniqueness of each day to keep things fresh. This is my take on teaching and my two cents.
James Jackson
William, agreed and flexibility also is needed as the instructor becomes more knowledgeable about the base knowledge of their students and the current experiences they bring into the classroom. Our ability as an instructor to use the current knowledge and understandings of our students can be directly related to the outcomes achieved.
James Jackson
I have spent a number of years in the classroom in adult education and I have to admit that it wasn’t always an easy process. In fact I think it is fair to say that every day is different and there is no telling what might happen. Due to the number of factors that can “sneak†up on instructors I think that flexibility is tremendously important. Being able to adapt with the various student personalities, behaviors and the unexpected events that may interrupt the day I believe to be the real challenge of managing a classroom and being an effective instructor.
By far the most important statement that was told to me as a young instructor was…… “Teach the students the material….avoid teaching the material to the studentsâ€. When I was first told this, it took me a little bit to figure out what was actually meant by it as the statement seemed very repetitive. The Director of Education then went on to explain that as an instructor you can be very knowledgeable of the material but if you do not place focus on the students then the transfer of that knowledge will not be as effective. Focusing on the material, the instructor tends to ignore the behavior and issues of the students and ultimately fails when it comes to classroom management. Focus needs to be placed on the students….controlling the environment first, then introducing the material. To this day I believe that classroom management makes the all the difference between a good instructor and a great instructor.
Humor, making fun of and being able to laugh at yourself when mistakes are made and relating to the students and knowledge of the material are essential to effective classroom management. I think that there is a balance of being the “tough guy†and someone that the student can relate to that provides respect. Respect is why students will listen to you and follow directions. It goes without saying that students will follow the lead of a good example. Practice what you preach and treat everyone as equals.
I think one of the most important traits that an instructor can have is flexibility. To be able to move fluidly when the unexpected happens and continue the educational process is a great skill. Flexibility in management style is also very important. Knowing which management role to assume at certain times can be a very effective tool.
Harley, can you provide some of the ways in which you influence your students? Is this influence part of your curriculum or more of just who you are? Thanks for anything you can share.
James Jackson
Robert, I really like the use of fair but firm. In the real world of employment our students will experience situations that are not always fair so this should be discussed and there is nothing wrong with discussing with students how fortunate they are that while in the classroom they will be treated fairly but this may not always be the case once they leave school.
James Jackson
Brian, you are correct and all students MUST be treated equally regardless of race, religion, beliefs, or financial status. That being said there is nothing wrong with those students that follow all rules and perform well in the classroom be acknowledged in front of their peers. All students should be praised as much as possible. In the real world those that perform to a higher level will reap the most rewards and this is a lesson students also need to learn.
James Jackson
Albert, I am glad you found the course useful. Do you feel there is anything we should be adding to the content or anything that needs to be more clear? Thanks for anything you can share.
James Jackson
brittany, well stated. We as instructors do have a higher standard to uphold than our students. Students are in the learning phase of their growth while we are already professionals and we know well in advance what to expect. I also feel it is equally important we know what students expect from their instructor and work towards building the necessary professional relationship to ensure that there is mutual trust and respect.
James Jackson
Bronzel, well stated. I totally agree that any learner in a Career College setting needs to know what is expected from them. I also feel it is equally important that I as an instructor need to know my students expectations of me and my classroom. This equality creates for a trusting and bonding relationship that promotes my desired outcomes.
James Jackson
Good instructors not only teach but influence lives everyday working directly with students .
I see a little of all in my teaching style. I think the best characteristic would be that the teacher is firm but fair. They need to be unfaltering in their style and maintain order in class when it is needed and conversations going during group projects.
I agree Phil that consistency is so important to managing a classroom. When students observe inconsistencies, such as the eating/drinking in the classroom, they may believe it carries over to our teaching/grading etc.
Instructor must be ready for class,maintain a good set class,review what we did yesterday,what we are doing today and what we will do tomorrow.Also all expectatio0ns must be defined and followed through during course of term!!!!
I honestly think that consistency in treatment of students is the most important idea to follow in a classroom. There should be no sign of favortism in a classroom as it builds into resentment or isolation in a classroom for those who are included. Adult learners as I see it want each and everyone to be treated the same regardless of background and i would have to agree with them. Plus sometimes the student who could potentially ignored might have more to place in the classroom than the favorite... But an instruct who plays the favorite game might not know becasue of a lack of contact.
I think classroom management, designing lesson plans and teaching strategies help set the tone for the successful adults learner. The adult leaner need to know what is expected of them.
