How to Approach & Talk with Instructors Making Connections How to Approach & Talk with Instructors

Why is it important to talk with your instructor? Find out about grades Get help with the class work Discuss interest in the major field Connect to professional world, expertise in the field of study Gain a mentor Obtain a letter of recommendation for graduate school or a job opportunity

When should I meet with them? Before Class After Class Office Hours Appointments

High School Teachers & College Professors Differences High School Teacher – trained to teach, teach info in the textbook, test on the text, check notebooks and homework Professors – expertise in one specific area, lecture on info that may not be in the text, expect you to prepare for the class and take notes, may not be trained as a teacher

What do professors expect from you? Attend class Read assignments Ask questions Take notes Seek help if needed Take responsibility for learning the info Follow the syllabus

Professors will… Inspire intellectual growth Challenge you to raise your standards and study more Pass on their knowledge & experience

How to make the most of the student / professor relationship Attend class regularly Sit near the front of the room Ask questions & make comments Go to office hours Learn the professor’s name! Inquire about majors related to their field and research being done

Three Kinds of Professors Teacher-Centered Content-Centered Student-Centered

Teacher-Centered Teach with “charisma” and style Deliver the info with a unique approach Belief that the course is worthwhile because s/he is teaching it

Content-Centered Believes the main task is to cover everything from A to Z Makes certain to discuss everything s/he feels is important

Student-Centered Believes the best learning occurs when students participate in the learning Takes an interest in the students in the class Stays involved in campus activities

What are the responsibilities of professors? Teach classes Research topics of interest in their field Write books and articles Advise students Give presentations at conferences Work on committees & projects on campus

Rank Lowest to highest levels Instructors / Lecturers / Adjunct Assistant Professors Associate Professors Full Professors

Tenure Professors who have proven themselves in terms of teaching skills, research, advising, service to the University and community are rewarded with the security of lifetime employment They enjoy academic freedom to voice opinions Professors that you like may not have tenure or may be working toward gaining tenure

Finding Good Professors Look for professors that are approachable, understanding, challenging, caring, and involve students in learning Talk with other students about professors that they have enjoyed Use the add/drop time to change the section of the class, if you don’t connect with the professor

In conclusion… Make an effort to get to know professors Connections with professors are valuable and important If you have a less appealing course or difficult instructor, remember that it will be over in a semester, and you may learn a great deal from the experience Become an engaged learner Enjoy your college experience