Developing Your Class

How many times have you stressed to your class the importance of communication? Now, how often does it seem, the more you constantly remind your students how valuable communication is, the even more, less likely they are to talk to you? Although, you may think that you are the easiest person to talk to, this may not be the same message that your students may get.

As instructors, we must remind ourselves that we are the ones that have been selected to set the foundation for each of our students as they go forth to pursue their professional goals. Using my own personal experience, the following are some ideas that should certainly help you self develop your class:•Show your students that you are human too. Allow you students to see that they can come to you about any concerns they may have without wondering if you will intimidate or look down on their situation.

UGA students at ASAP conference

Group of Woodbine Agricultural School students, Wo...

Auburn University students at ASAP conference

Students can be intimidated by the position you hold or the idea talking among their peers. Some people are simply shy. So, don’t be afraid to bring a little bit of your personality into your classroom! Let them see your humorous side. It’s okay to laugh a little, as long as you remember you are the professional.

•Be clear and concise at all times. When it comes to writing and orally communicating to your students, make sure that you are as detailed as possible. You should also be sure that it’s also in agreement with Kaplan’s guidelines. The last thing you want is a student that knows more about school’s rules and regulations than you do. That will, definitely, end up coming back to bite you!•Be honest. It’s okay for you to simply say that you do not know the answers to every question. In addition,