-=> Quoting Tina Buchanan to All <=-
 TB> I was wondering if any of you would have some advice for me to follow
 TB> when I  get into the classroom next week.  College professors can only
 TB> help so much,  and I need "real-world" advice.
 Hello Tina,
	      I'm writing from Sydney, Australia and am wondering if this
 will reach you at all.  But here goes anyway.
 First, you will probably have just begun your teaching career by the time
 you read this and so I hope you have really enjoyed yourself.
 I am a part-time teacher (facilitator) in the tertiary level here
 (Tertiary And Further Education) and I teach for the enjoyment of it.
 What makes it better is it is a hobby which pays me rather well!
 But as for advice, be yourself in front of your students.  If you are
 naturally humorous, then be the same at school.  Attempt to be out-going
 and appear to enjoy teaching them.
 Sometimes, some classes will respond quickly while others will take much
 longer, but most students will co-operate if the class atmosphere is light
 and bouyant.  Class atmosphere is a good indicator of how you, and more
 importantly, how your subject is being received and interpreted by the
 students.
 Your own confidence in the subject(s) you teach is very important.  You
 have to know you subject matter well to be able to teach it well, and your
 confidence needs to be evident to the students.  If you can deliver the
 info without having to consult your notes constantly, it often has a
 positive impact on the students and your confidence!
 Remember no-one knows it all.  So if a student has a question you cannot
 readily answer, admit it, and tell them you will get back to them with the
 answer ... and do it!  Even if they forget they asked the question,
 showing the willingness to find the answer and provide them with it can
 help foster a positive class atmosphere and help instill some willingness
 to learn.
 To some readers, this may appear to be "pie in the sky" stuff, but I've
 been teaching all kinds of students for quite some time and one thing
 always commented on it the positive classroom atmosphere in my classes.
 Anyway, all the best of luck.  Let us know how you get on, if you feel
 like it.
 Regards,
	 Garry
--- GEcho Pro+
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