First class preparation and introduction
I am a new instructor and have only taught for 2 quarters so far (6 months). I learn something new at the beginning of every quarter regarding everything from my preparation to my student's overall impression of the class.
I have found that the rules and expectations for the class should be explained thoroughly to the students on the first day as it sets the overall tone for the class. Looking back on my first quarter teaching, I can see that I did not do this as well and as I have become more familiar with my position, I can see how much I have improved in this area. Students are much more confident, comfortable and successful when an instructor has set specific guidelines for the class. I also realize that my ongoing experience has made me more confident and comfortable in the classroom, which ultimately affects my student's behavior and success as well.
Lauren,
You have a great outlook on your professional development. Isn't it fun to see how you mature and expand your instructional delivery abilities? This makes teaching so much more enjoyable for everyone.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I can definitely see myself improving each time I step in front of a class. Obviously the first day makes every instructor a little bit anxious, but as I continue to gain experience I know that this will become easier and easier. I have already taken some good ideas from the training and my fellow instructors that I will incorporate into my classroom moving forward.
Lauren,
Great to hear about your instructional progress. Keep up the effort and you will expand your expertise to the point that teaching will become your passion as well as your profession.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
From personal experience (23) years teaching, it takes three or four times teaching a subject to get a complete grasp of your material and how you present it. You sound firmly grounded and on the road to a successful career. Good luck.
Im also a new instructor, I also found out that stating in the beginning the expectation sets the tone for the overall course.
Jennifer,
Make the expectations clear and concise at the beginning and the stage has been set for the course. From then on it is a matter of learning the needed content and skills in a sequential manner.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I had a experienced instructor kind of help me along with developing class room guidelines. That made it helpful for me and the students so that they new what I expected and what they were to expect for me
Heather,
Always good to have someone like this to help you develop professionally. We all need to see if we can mentor a new instructor along as they develop their skills as a teacher.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
