Showing lack of experience due to nervous tension
This will be my first course I've ever taught. I know the material and am confident that I have the ability to teach it. I'm just not sure I can handle the lecturing part of it. And answering random questions doesn't thrill me. How do I handle this??
Hi Krista,
As long as you are confident, you can take ownership in the lecture. The lecture belongs to you; you know it and exhibit knowing it. Go in prepared, and you will be just fine. Answer the questions as best as you can. You are going to do well.
Patricia
I just completed my very first time teaching a class. The nervous tension I had before each class meeting almost drove me crazy! But one tidbit of advice from a fellow instructor helped me alot with the random questions. He simply said even though I have many years in the field, I am still not going to know the answer to every question. Just be confident in telling the student that you don't know, but will look it up and get back to him. But the key is actually looking up the answer and answering the question "ASAP"!
Hi Tiffany,
It is human nature to be nervous because you have never done it before, and you want to do a super job. No one knows it all, the seasoned instructor give you extremely helpful advice. Let the students know that you do not know, but you will find it out, and follow up with the students at the next class meeting. This will help your students keep the respect they have for you.
Patricia
