Role model outside of the classroom
Through my years I have seen many so called 'good role models' who are only good when they are in the classroom, or the boss is watching. I'm not saying they should stop swearing and yelling altogether, but could they at least do it where the students aren't watching? A real role model should still be a role model when they leave the class room.
Hi Sarah,
Your last sentence says it all. We are always being observed by students so we need to be a model at all times even when walking the halls of the college.
Gary
I love your last sentence.
I agree, but I wouldn't want to come across as stiff or fake to my students or they will see right though me.
I do my best to be a role model, but not to be perfect.
While realizing that no one is perfect, when in a position as a role model, it is important to remember that it is alright to be human, it is possible to be human in a professional way.
The way I feel is if we want our students to act a certain way then why don't we set examples!
Hi Rochelle,
Well said. A simple and powerful concept that all instructors need to keep in their minds at all times.
Gary
As a professional we must always think of ourselves as roll models 24/7. You never know who is around the corner watching.
Hi Kenneth,
Well said and often forgotten by instructors. We may not want to be "on" all of the time but it comes with our title as instructor so we need to keep that in the back of our minds at all times.
Gary
and so it goes for the students who come visiting not looking their best. Dress for success! You never know who you will find in your way...
I believe that maintaining a high level of professionalism outside of the classroom is very important.
Say, for example, I live very near the campus where I teach. After a hard day of working in the yard, I need to go to the grocery store to pick up some last minute items for dinner. I am sweaty and dirty, and my clothes are my usual “work-in-the-yard” attire.
I go to the store, and as I check out, I notice that the clerk is a student of mine. I believe that I have just shown a lower level of professionalism, than I would personally desire to show my students. I have not taken the time to change clothes, shower, or whatever it takes to make myself presentable in a public situation. Although it may be a more relaxed standard than in the classroom, I must maintain a certain standard of professionalism any time that I may have a student encounter.
Tracey
