Professionalism
There is so much professionalism lacking today. Every day we have to lead by example.
John,
I agree with the basic premise of leading by example. Being a role model for our students is essential. The fly in this ointment is a familiar one; Consistency among all the staff that will interact with the student. As our students will typically see 15-17 instructors for three weeks at a time throughout their term with us, it only takes one or two instructors lacking in their commitment to professionalism to undermine the majority of instructors that are truly dedicated to this leg of the education we provide. When students have poor examples to point to within the faculty and staff our job of enforcing professionalism will end up taking a disproportionate amount of time, energy and resources. I have noticed that the level of professionalism enforcement is inversely proportionate to the amount of management on campus (shift to shift).
We need to remember that overall, our students are here by choice and are eager and thirsty for the knowledge and skills we can provide. It would be unfair to allow the very few students that can make our life miserable to take time away from the education of those that are fulfilling their obligation and expect for us to fulfill ours. Remembering this makes it easier for me to quickly, decisively and compassionately remedy behavior and professionalism issues.
Good Luck
I am an instructor in a school teaching motorcycle mechanics to the industry. Professionalism is becoming ever more important as there is more contact between the technician and the customer. Our school has set down rules and regulations for behavior, dress, and workmanship in the classroom that has helped to standardise how they are handled by the instructor. Of course , how the instructor presents himself is of utmost importance.
I think in my industry consistant professionalism is abit lacking. I take pride in what i do so it comes pretty easy for me. I also feel that without it the student wont get to far in the field. And I try to let them know this often.
Hi Rick,
Way to go on reinforcing the model concept of why they need to look and act like the professionals they are training to become.
Gary
Hi Bernie,
I agree about the "Student Handbook" guidelines. However most of the students never read it and inconsistincey from instructor to instructor makes it tough to keep the same standard going forward. The instructor is definitely the "Key" here.
I feel it is my job/duty to teach professionalism. Like you I took pride in my 38 years in "the field" and still take pride after 5+ years as a instructor.I want my students to not only take pride in what they do but who they are.
Hi John,
Great philosophy! You are reflecting what a professional educator is all about and what that professional wants from his students.
Keep showing them the way.
Gary
To instruct learning surgical technologists to become proficient, professional and dependable is my main focus. With a classroom full of diverse backgrounds of education, job experience and culture I look for ways to incorporate these important skills into my lecture every day. But I ask myself, 'how do I teach the importance of being professional in an operating room', when they have never been in one as an employee. I try to use examples from my own O.R. experience and the experience of others who work in the O.R. I do try to lead by example by being on time, being prepared and dressed appropriately for the O.R. How do I know if I'm reaching them about the importance of their job? I find that students who show up late or don't call/email that they will not be attending instruction to be my biggest challenge. These are usually the students who are average/below average and need more one on one motivation and encouragement.
Hi Cherie,
As you mention in your later remarks many marginal students preselect themselves out via their attendance and performance in class. It is sad they have to go through this but better now than later. The most important person in the surgical suite is the patient and we all want to feel confident in the abilities of those that are performing professionals services for the patient.
Gary
Hi Gary,
Yes it is a shame that students let themselves fail. Yet I feel that I could motivate more, be a better model or perhaps add interesting games to test their skills. I don't want to lose anyone from a lack of my own skills, but I don't want to see someone in the O.R. with a less than great desire to take care of the patient. Thanks.
Cherie
John, we cannot afford to let our gaurd down even for a moment as we will be judged by that one action. Our dress,language,attitude,must always be set well above the generaly accepted bar
John,
I agree! I am new to teaching but an "old school nurse" having been in the profession for over 30 years. I hope to be able to convey to the students just how important professional is in getting and keeping a job, and that first impressions count. Wish me luck!
