Role Model
Setting the example for our students. Showing them the way from our mistakes and telling them that you have made the same ones and being truthful with them. We are not better than them, we just have the experience. It does not mean we are above them and they are below us. Just to pass the knowledge we have learned over the years to them so that they can carry on into the future.
I let them know from the beginning that I’m not perfect and make mistakes. I tell them it is important to learn from them though. When teaching something new to them I tell them of my struggles learning it and that helps as well.
We are not different, just more experienced. I over heard an interview the other day that said experience, all though a good teacher, is not the best teacher. We should learn from not our mistakes but also the mistakes of others. I found both truth and humor in this as the example the person used was touching a hot stove. Learn when I get burned so you don't have to. But set a good example for them to follow so that they learn from your good habits and help them to see that they can break their bad ones as you may have had to do in the past.
All wonderful ideas. However I think it's important to keep in mind that as we challenge students we need to think about other facators in their lives instead of just telling them to "step up"
Great Post!! Same view but a different way of looking at it. I don't think students mind seeing us as a step above them in the education realm. It is important for them to see us that way.
Craig,
Another great point. It is important that we show students we are a similar other. We have the experience, but we had to have mistakes to gain that experience.
Hello Craig,
I agree with your statement, “We are not better than them; we just have the experience," however with a slight twist. As educators who are, as Todd commented, usually older we've had the opportunity for more experiences. However, to me, being educated is a little different. It is an experience I chose knowing it would be one of great challenge. Although I don't see students less of a human or less successful as I am, I do see them as less educated. Because of this view, I see myself as a model of an individual with an advanced education. Sometimes students complain they can't take it all in or move at the pace the term requires. In those cases, I challenge them to "step up" to the goal and work to achieve my education level - meaning: put some work into it, you can do it too!! I think it is okay to see myself as a level up in the realm of education. It is what they are there to achieve and I want them to know they can do it and reach the same level of education if they push themselves.
Same view? Different way of looking at it?
Lou Anne Derry
Often refering to the exact time that you made the same mistake gives them a sense you really do know what they are dealing with.
once the students realize that we are no different from them, just a bit older (most of the time) the stress level in the class drops. once they relate the rest is easy.
