More than Instructors??
I liked the motivation topics and wanted to add that some people like to view their job as just work but (in my opinion) we are so much more then just knowledge delivery devices. In some cases we have students that are in fact looking for mentors and role models. I ain't saying that we should get the SSN's and claim them on out taxes but the job is really about people and helping them.
In some cases we are the first ones to expect 100% from them and they realise how much they can do on their own.
I would have to agree we are so much more than instructors we are their confidants, models, counselor, etc. Students will view the instructor as someone knowlegeable, and experinced in life. The students will come to you for advice and imput. We the instructors have to be ready and willing to help, listen, and provide some direction, at all times.
I agree that a lot of the time we as instructors are expecting more of the students than parents possibly do. The more the students accomplish is a direct reflection on us, the instructors.
Agreed Ray. We are after all their choice. They have come to us and we should over-deliver when it comes to their expectation. They will see that kind of commitment in practice and follow.
we are so much more than just instructors, these students look at us as people they can trust. the 1st day i tell them that i will give them the respect they want and i want the same in return.
I agree, and in most cases we may not realize that this happends more often than what we think.
I feel the same way and know that my faith in their ability to learn is paramount to their success. By providing as many learning tools and stratigies I can reach almost any student and help them succeed.
Ray - I would have to agree with you, I have often been told that I expect too much from my student or that I set the bar too high. I find that if I set the class to a high level of expectation and then help them to achieve it; they (the students) find at the end of my course that he/she has actually learned more than they would give themselves credit. No Spoon feeding here! You would be surprised as to what even the below average learner can accomplish with the right motivation and encouragement.
I agree. We are more than just instructors. Some student have had some bad times in their lives and sometimes they really do rely on us instructors to give them guidance. Probably something that they have never had. I can honestly say I have had many students like that in the last three years. It gives me great pleasure to be there for them.
I FEEL THAT I AM NOT ONLY A INSTRUCTOR,BUT ALSO A PERSON TO GUILD A STUDENT THREW HIS/HER PROBLEMS OF THE DAY
I agree Mike. For some of our students, we may be the first person that has ever told them "you can do this". And that encourgement builds confidence which gives the student a new outlook.
Yes, I too, agree. I have had students come to me on day three in basic engines, telling me they want to quit school. Even before taking their first test, the student is so nervous about failing the test. Normally these students have never been exposed to the automotive field and UTI is their first step toward this. So, I sit them down and let them know it will all come together, you will feel and gain confidence as you continue taking classes. Hey, it works for me and makes the student feel at ease. Then when the student graduates and comes to me to shake hand on his or her way out, I feel good.
Hi John,
That is what teaching is all about. Giving students an opportunity to learn and develop skills that will make a difference in their lives.
Thanks for sharing your comments.
Gary
I agree, and our teaching of the technical skills and knowledge to our students is more effective when we are both a person and an instructor.
When I first became an instructor my mentor told me that I had chosen one of the most difficult professions. He was right.
Thanks to my mentor challenging me; I understood that my job was not only to teach my students the information necessary to gain a career, but also to help them develop into professionals that will be able to retain their jobs.
We have a rare opportunity to better so many lives. It is a great responsibility and a most rewarding gift.
Hi Norma,
Yes, teaching is a challenging profession but as you say it is most rewarding. Getting to see and experience the growth of students is what keeps us coming back to the classroom. We are leaving a legacy of our experience through our students. Keep up the good work.
Gary
