Guide
Its very interesting to realize that during most of my education most of my instructors were controllers. I see myself as a guide. And I was often criticized for not having complete control in my classroom, but my biggest incentive to be a "guide" like instructor was remembering the days when I was a student, and how I hated being in classrooms where the teachers were controllers and enjoyed more the classrooms where there was more open discussion. Fantastic course...learned a lot.
I couldn't decide which forum I wanted to reply to - there were many interesting topics. Then I read this response and it hit home.
I feel I am a "guide" with a bit too much "control" and definately wanted to work on that, actually beating myself up a little bit over the issue. Then I read this commit and now I really think I have a good balance. I expect a lot from my students (and myself) - many assignments with deadlines to make sure they are reviewing the covered material, but also offer positive reinforcement and many incentives. I do not often have issues where I feel disipline is needed, but it does happen, I'm somewhat reserved/reluctant to make an issue of it. Sometimes, I have felt like "pick your battles." I think I need to be a better inforcer!
This class was very informative and created much self evaluation - which is wonderful, as I continue to strive to become a better instructor.
I agree with you. I really enjoyed this course. As an instructor, I am more of a guide, but I had to be a controller when I came back from vacation and my instructor-partner had allowed the entire class to fall into utter chaos (texting in class, eating and drinking in class, talking incessantly, etc). The other instructor did not like to discipline students. I will definitely be implementing the suggestions of this course. It was amazing!! Thanks a lot.
I agree with the concepts of the guide management style. It creates the proper balance between a well-organized class and a highly interactive class. I believe that this mix allows students to develop to their full potential. This style also creates an environment where there is good communications between the student and the instructor. It also helps the student to become comfortable interacting in a group which will help the student in an employment situation.
Stacie, glad to hear you enjoyed the class. Do you see any changes you will make in your own delivery of your lesson plans or management of your classrooms?
James Jackson
Herjit, guides can have total control over their classrooms. The focus is the guide can do so by getting students to want to be in control versus feeling forced. By following the course rules and meeting course objectives, guides reward students through positive reinforcement versus the controller using negative methods.
James Jackson
I was delighted to know that I was categorized as a guide, with great emphasis of being a controller as well. I love the interaction, but I know I must provide my students with the necessary tools to not only be efficient in the classroom, but in their professional lives as well. My students also have a great understanding that we must conduct business in the classroom environment; which is the controller part of me, but they also know that their suggestions and real life experiences are welcomed during the discussion. They often say that they know that I’m there for them, but I take no excuses when it comes to them giving a 100%. I too relate back to the time when the roles were reversed, and how my instructors facilitated their classes; and what I didn’t care to much for. I love the interaction and know that we all have stories to tell, which makes learning so much more fun. I really needed to know this information because it provided me with more insight of how I truly facilitate my classes.
