I am a new Instructor and for some crazy reason I chose not to take the training. I just threw myself in there and it was horrible the first day. I stood to the side and basically hide from the class. I still to this day have terrible stage fright but more so I think from leaving my Students bored with nothing more to do than judge and critique me. My Teaching job now puts me in front of my peers but before this I taught Children and it was the same thing, I was terrified. I too considered quitting. The thing that helps me the most is to BE PREPARED. Keep the class going, get them involved. They will appreciate it and it alleviates the stage fright. Anyhow I really appreciate all the advice!
Hi Jessica,
Thanks for sharing your experience with us. Many teachers got their start just like you. A sink or swim type of introduction. You have stuck it out and now are in control of your destiny as a professional educator.
Keep growing in the profession because your students will benefit from your dedication.
Gary
many times I have done lectures and from crowds of ten to at one time almost two thousand...I still get that horrible queasy feeling in my stomach ..... nothing ever really changes but that energy i use to go out there and prove yourself . areal ok I will show you what I am made of kind of attitude
As a new instructor I found that sometimes the students were nervous as well and it helped to start off with a Q & A to ease the tension and find some commonality with the students and break the ice. it has worked well for me and has made it easier to roll right into the "teaching" part of the class.
Hi Don,
Well said. Sounds like you have found a strategy that gets your class up and running while getting yourself settled down.
Gary
I have only been instructing for 11 months now and I experienced "stage fright" when asked to go out of my class and teach a seminar type class within our curriculum. While I prepared as much as I could I brought my stock portfolio instead of my course outline to class. What really helped was at the time another instructor was there to observe. He stepped in, took over and allowed me to go home to get my notes/outline so I could come back in and continue the class. Having good support around you really helps get though the tough times. It is important to "get back on the horse" when you fall off. I was given that opportunity and am still teaching (still learning more than I teach sometimes). To all new instructors-Prepare as much as you can/learn from those around you and expect to be nervous at first. The real thrill happens when students thank you for your effort.
Hi Charles,
Thank you for sharing your story about "stage fright". I know this story applies to many instructors. All of us have been there at one time or another. Hearing that it all worked out for you with the assistance of another instructor shows how in teaching you have to be flexible and willing to change directions when needed.
Keep up the good work.
Gary
Hi i'm Vanessa i'm a new instructor and i've learn to have a focus point in the room to calm me down.Also it's important to breath when you feel like your about to panic.Remembering that the students are open to us and we as instructors have the upper hand we've already been in there shoes so have fun and relaxed.
