selective enthusiasm
A string that has connected many of the lectures in this training has been the need to show interest and enthusiasm in your classroom. Where I absolutely agree that students will mimic the mentalities of the instructor and that viewing passion is one of the most powerful motivators available, I also think it may be worth noting that there is such a thing as too much enthusiasm. The consequence of which resulting in students that see their instructors passion as being less genuine.
Has anyone felt they needed to dial back to emphasize other points in lectures or experienced a professor that seemed to be on either extreme [too passionate or too Ben Stein]?
Ed,
I have had both types of instructors and I have to say both types amazed me. Balance is a must in terms of bringing passion and enthusiasm into the classroom and get students engaged. For me this is the fun part being an instructor. I get to teach something I love and get paid to do it.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree with balancing the energy in the classroom. It is important to keep focused on the topic and not let the class get out of control. It is important to not be dry, boring, and speak in monotone. This will not motivate students but may put them to sleep. On the other hand an instructor who gets off topic a lot and jokes around too much will not be taken seriously.
Sarah,
Thank you for these great comments about the need for balance by the instructor. As the learning leader we need to keep the class moving forward, on topic and have engaged students. There are many ways to do this so we instructors need to be on the look out for strategies that will work in our setting.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I don't know if there is such a thing as being too enthusiastic. I think that enthusiasm is a wonderful thing to have and to show in the classroom.
Kathryn,
I agree. By being enthusiastic we are showing our students we value our content and want to share it with them. This goes a long way in helping them to become part of the learning community.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
