Ryan,
I also agree with your grandfather's statement. Our students are like children, they are always watching and observing our behaviors whether we are in class or away from work, they are influenced by our model.
I believe that caring is probably the most important aspect in dealing with our students. It seems as if the other things will fall into place or be more readily accepted if they know you truly care.
When interacting with students, I think back on somthing my Grandfather told me " A man should strive to be the man his dog thinks he is" When I was younger it sounded foolish, but the older I get the more truth I see in it.
As teachers, or instructors we sometimes fail to see that we can be looked up to as a role model by our students. We should not let them down, but set the example.
A sense of caring is very important in gaining the students respect.
I absolutely agree. They can sense if we really care or not. I work for a smaller school (about 300 students) so we get to know them pretty well. I work in the Registrar's office and students are really surprised (in a good way) that I can remember who they are. Now, I can tell you, I don't remember all of their names, but I do make an effort to try to learn them.
Students are very perceptive and pick up the sense of caring immediately. They can feel it!
I agree with you, Charles. Students can tell who is here because they have a passion for teaching and education and who is here to collect a paycheck. Don't get me wrong, we all have bills to pay, but the students can tell whose heart is in it and whose isn't.
Students, like children, learn by example. If we as educators are genuinely enthusiastic about our subject matter and its value to them they will be infected with this spirit.
Outstanding posts Teresa. You truly are an "Intelligent Heart."
