The "New Guy"
Getting over the stigma of being the "New Guy" teacher is probably something many have gone through. I will be teaching my first classes ever in a few weeks. Just wondering if there are any suggestions as to how to come out of the gate at full speed and to gain the trust of the students quickly.
Gaining students trust is based on setting clear and fair rules and their rewards, addressing their learning styles, and most importantly show them how much you care about their education.
The students must feel that you are competent in your subject matter sometimes they test you. Also, you need to be very excited about what you are teaching it really gets their attention and you will win them over. If you are not sure about something let them know that you will research it and get back to them. Students know that teachers do not know everything and a competent teacher will do followup.
I just finished my first quarter as "the new guy." I definitely over-prepared...not necessarily a bad thing. I think the two toughest things for me were judging how long it would take to teach topics and also remembering the student's names.
Eviene,
Good point about following up on information after a student asks a question that requires some research. Teaching is learning and learning is growth. This benefits everyone when both students and the instructor are learning together. Also, this project professionalism on the part of the instructor.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Scott,
These two items are common for new instructors. Sounds like you had a good experience and will be even more efficient the next time you teach. I wish you continued teaching success.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Philip,
Be human. Do introductions and have an ice breakers that gets the students talking and laughing together. Be a part of the ice breaker. In addition, be prepared, confident and organized. Arrive early and chat with the students a few minutes informally. When you are ready to start the class you will have a read on the students and be able to launch your teaching career feeling ready to be the learning leader.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I was in the same situation...but your are right you can never over-prepare.
my second day working for the school im at the person who was training left sick and was out for almosta week, it was my first time ever teaching and the students do test you on knowledge and skill when it comes to me and my situation which is barbering. it wasnt easy but over a short period of time i gained their trust and respect except for a few who i tried but just had no interest.
Kevin,
What a tough way to start your teaching career but you should gained a lot of experience in a short period of time. Keep up the good work and continue to grow as an educator. We have a great job that impacts the lives of a lot of people.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I'm also going to be teaching for the first time in a couple of weeks. It's very helpful to read all of the advice that everyone has to succeed, or even survive, this situation. I'm very excited but also quite nervous for that first day up in front of the class. I guess the secret is to just be myself and try to connect with the students.
Jeremy,
Your last sentence is right on. Be yourself, project your personality, be organized, be prepared and do an ice breaker/introduction activity that will get the students talking and having fun. With a class opening like this you will get a chance to get to know the students and they will get settled into the course while sharing a laugh with other students. This buys you some time while you get over your nerves and figure out that teaching is fun and that you are going to be good at it. I wish you much success.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I began my part-time online teaching career earlier this year. Even in the online environment, it is important to welcome students informally, get to know them, and build a foundation of trust and commitment to their success. I still keep in touch with some of my first students, as I promised them that I would. I feel that it provides that extra level of support many of them need.
Blessings to all!
Kimberly Perkins, MEd, NHA
Kimberly,
The human factor in teaching should never be lost no matter the delivery venue being used. You are practicing it through your communication and ongoing contact with your students. I wish you continued teaching success.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I,too,am teaching for the first time. I am very nervous but excited as well. It's good to hear from everyone because I get ideas and courage from all your comments. THANK YOU!!
Dr. Antonia,
I wish you much teaching success. Based upon your comments I know you are going to be an effective and efficient instructor. Be human, be consistent and be the learning leader and you will do well. The nerves will go away quickly once you get into the actual class and start to interact with the students. Enjoy!
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I am also coming out of the gate as the "New Gal." I am stepping into the shoes of someone who has stepped up into a supervisor position. The class is almost over, and I am trying to work hard to gain the trust and confidence of the students with whom she has worked with so closely. With terms being 6 weeks, this has been a hard adjustment.
I am also having a hard time developing my own way of doing things as the students are used to her style of teaching.
Any recommendations?
Erin,
Be yourself and bring your instructional style to the classroom. You are starting at a great disadvantage as you know because of the comparisons that students are making. This is why you need to continue to enforce the course policies, requirements and expectations that have been set but do them within your instructional style. The key is to get through this course, learn from it and then determine how you will conduct your own course the next time you teach. I wish you continued teaching success.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
My advice to you and I pass this little tidbit down from the supervisor of my first teaching job. She said to me one day, "Always remember that you are teaching them about a job you have already gained much experience in and therefore places you in the instruction role almost naturally!" Something to ponder! :) Good luck and always be yourself! :)
Aaron,
Well said. That was sage advice from your supervisor and is still true today. You are helping them to move toward their career choice through your instruction and expertise.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
