Age in Relation to Students
The portion of this section about students and age issues really hit home. In the past I have had students question my ability to teach them because of my age. I became a college professor at the age of 28. Now, at the age of 32, I am younger than a lot of my students. In addition, I'm still younger that the parents of my younger students. I kind of sit between a rock and a hard place. While I am completely competent in my ability to teach them, I shy away from posting my picture to our course portal so students won't have an idea of my age range. Since I teach online not posting my picture completely prevents students from knowing my age. Has anyone else had this issue? If so, how did you handle it?
Hi Amanda,
I never discuss my age with my students nor do I want to know their age. I focus on my achievements and years in the field to prove my knowledge of the program and ability to teach them. Although I obtained my degree later in life, I still have over 10 years experience plus 3 years of International experience where I worked in London England for an International Museum and Exhibition Design Studio. Also, showing examples of my work, letting the students view my online portfolio etc has also given me validation as to my ability and knowledge.
In terms of an image to use, I have seen other instructors use an artistic versions of themselves to help with not actually revealing their age.
I teach adult learners and many times my students are my age or older. By group discussion and my experience and enthusiasm about the subject, the student gets involved and willing to problem solve. I do have years of experience and I present an issue that I have dealt with (when I was young) and we discuss how to handle that issue now with wisdom of maturity. It really draws the student into the conversation and they are learning through this discussion
Victor,
This is what being a learning leader is all about. You are walking your students through content as well as application and this enhances the value to the students in relation to their career development.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Amanda,
This is a common problem for me as well. I am an instructor at a Music technology college and there are many students older than me. I always stress that no matter where you are, or what situation the student may find themselves--there's a good chance someone else in the room has more experience and knowledge than you--either generally or in a specific situation. In some cases they may be younger than you as well.
