Qualifacations of the Instructor
I do think this is very important at the beginning of the class, (depending on the school)in our Technical school at the beginning of every class each Instructor gives a 2-3 minute presentation of there experience in the feild and in the subject their teaching. This gives the students a good sense of feeling that there instructor has the back ground for teaching this subject, this also lets the student know that the school is hiring instructors that can teach them about the feilds they our going into.
I like to spend time at the beginning of the course going over my work history so that students do know that I am experienced in the area that they are studying.I also make sure to give plenty of real life examples during lectures.
As a young instructor, I worry that I don't have enough qualifications to lay out to students on the first day. Therefore, I probably only do around 2-3 minutes. I do focus on my short work experience, but spend most of my time talking about my educational background. Is there any advice on how to present myself in the best light as a new instructor?
I think that it is very important to reassure the students that they are getting quality instruction.
I post an extensive autobiography (online) that gives the student my background and “history” and also tells them why I teach. I want to share my credentials but I also want them to know that I am doing what I want to do. I share my philosophy of teaching. It is important for students to have a mental picture of what the instructor has, is and will do, as it is important (I think) that they have a photo of the faculty member. (I also use video cams in chats.) The syllabus is also personalized from my perspective, to them, revised each session to be fresh and current as well as to let them know what the course is about and what we will explore. I have more comprehensive “Expectations” posted as to the “how to.” As well as academic credentials I relate to students my experiences in the field and what they can expect. This introduction then stays open the remainder of the session as far as students being able to ask questions about concerns as they think of them. I also think that this continual dialogue keeps them interested and motivated.
I believe also, that in Career coleges, work experience in the field is also important, along of course with teaching experience. Student will always recognize an look up to certain instructor as a role model, if this instructor has a extensive and succesful work exprience in this industry instead of just coming out of school.
Manuel--
Being a young instructors has its benefits and challenges. You can certainly relate to the students and have very recrnt field experiences. That is very helpful. You probably also run in to some 'doubting' students because of your age and limited teaching experience. Sounds like you are doing well...keep it up!
Susan
As a young Instructor it is very important for me to tatlk about my fiels experience as well as how attending the school I now work at benefitted me greatly. It gives them a sense of belief in our ability as a learning institution.
Thomas--
I agree. Letting students know you have been, literally, on the other side is a big benefit.
Susan
Every instructor should give the students a background information about themselves. this is indeed needed to create a learning invireonment where students know that the instructor "been there - done that" and know what he/she is talking about.
I tend to go a little further than 2-3 minutes. I will generally go 5-7 minutes. In that time I explain the 2 careers that I had before I chose the institution that gave me the education for my final career. As it just so happens, this is the institution that I teach at now. I find this to be an incredible tool to demonstrate the sense of value and to show the students that I am able to relate to their situation because I, at one time, sat in the same chairs that they find themselves now.
Thomas J. Costello
Bradley--
You make very good points, all of which are critically important. The qualifications of the instructor does provide verification both about the faculty and also the institution.
Susan
