New Instructor Advise
As a new instructor I was so overwhelmed. It seemed like everything was coming at me so fast. Though I know the material I was about to start teaching I felt the hardest part was preparation for classes. Thankfully, the previous instructor left all the previous material (PowerPoint, handouts, test, etc) that I used as an outline. I did not try to "reinvent the wheel" and it was of tremendous help. I cant even imagine how much more overwhelmed I would have been if I had to start from scratch.
My advise to all new instructors, at least for the first couple of terms, use the same outline as what was used before. In time, you will know what works and what doesn't, and slowly but surely you will eventually modify the course to one that fits you.
It's not always possible, but I invite new instructors teaching the same course materials to shadow me or consider me a mentor. I often invite them to sit in my classes to observe. While every teacher has a different style, this provides first-hand demonstrations of both the material I cover and the students' reactions. I am often thanked sincerely for those opportunities, and I would definitely consider asking another instructor to shadow if I were assigned to teach a new course.
I am a new instructor as well. I was not given all of the tests, handouts, etc. But i was given time to sit in during several classes and watch several instructors different teaching styles on the same subject. That helped me alot during the first weeks that I was here.
Shadow a current instructor. If that is not possible , use notes, outlines , exams to format your power point slides. I have new instructors with no teaching experience. I have them work under another instructor until they feel some confidence in teaching the curriculum. Sometimes even if you are not perfect at lecturing, showing confidence to the students helps tremendously
I agree. When I started teaching I shadowed another instructor and that was extremely helpful. As you said I was very comfortable with the material I just wasn't confident in being able to teach it. There are several classes that I used the lesson plans that were previously established. After each time I revised different parts of the lessons and I also asked my classes for their input.
Your theory is correct, but don't lose sight of the fact that no two students are alike. Take into consideration that a student may need a simplified explanation as opposed to a general one. Make sure to let that student know that you can make yourself available to her/him for additional assistance.
I recommended that all new instructors be buddied with a veteran instructor that they can talk to email and work with. This frees up program chairs, helps newbies, and developes trainers out of veteran instructors.
Sometimes just the idea that we have to teach for 5 hours is overwhelming. I also google the course I am teach and other professors and instructors courses will come up and so will student projects. Its a good way to generate ideas on projects
Having a list of the things you want to accomplish for the day is key, as this will help you stay focused and on task. One of the hardest things to do as a new instructor is to not feel overwhelmed, following your list will help you with this stressor.
Shadowing another instructor is great. I have found that co-workers are amazing!! They are always willing to offer their assistance, so don't be shy ask away!! As for me I always feel honored when someone asks me for my opinion or advise.
Shantana, What a wonderful idea! I love mentorship programs, particularly when you can pair senior staff members with junior level people. If your administration has not considered this already, I might recommend suggesting it.
Dr. Melissa Read
I AGREE...when I first started teaching I was the ONLY night instructor and the day instructor was not very helpful because she had devised her own teaching plan and materials and felt I should do the same. I researched lots of activities and lessons on the internet and made it through the quarter. Next quarter I started incorporating the materials from the publisher (that I didn't even know existed) into work/lectures I had from previous quarter. Now I have a WONDERFUL day instructor to work with and he is fabulous at sharing...we both are...
Even though we only see each once or twice a year, we still email and talk when help is needed.
I am also a new instructor and just like you I feel that i know all of the material but find it difficult to organize for class. The most difficult part of this job is using my time wisely so that i can prepare for class. I have gone through the material and thought of the ways that i can get the students to understand and learn what i am teaching. This has taken up a lot of time but with the to do lists it has been a lot faster
this is a teamwork on the go towards student success. a troubled share is a trouble halve. instructor also needs a buddy system approach towards learning journey
