Michael Bachman

As an instructor, motivating 18 and 19 year olds can be challenging. I have utilized all the techniques taught in this module at one time or another. Understanding what motivates the individual is the key.

Attempting to understand our students is not always easy. Not only do we have the cultural, and other obstacles that come naturally. We are sometimes faced with the student that has grown up economically disadvantaged. I have had students that were gang members and came from an environment that I simply could not comprehend. Drugs, Violence, absent parents,sexual abuse, ect, ect. Sometimes getting in touch or at least understanding these students can be very fullfilling both professionally and personnally. Just something to think about.

I liked the motivation topics and wanted to add that some people like to view their job as just work but (in my opinion) we are so much more then just knowledge delivery devices. In some cases we have students that are in fact looking for mentors and role models. I ain't saying that we should get the SSN's and claim them on out taxes but the job is really about people and helping them.

Preparing to teach a new class can be difficult as one hones in on what to say and what not to say but I have found the prep stage to be the biggest aid I have to get it right the first time.

As instructors we are being watched and judged by our students constantly. Making sure that we are being good models while still being Human can be hard. Weeks of hard work and earning respect can go down the tubes with one slip of the tongue or unprofessional action. Always keep your gaurd up.