What Makes a Good Instructor?

Although every faculty member is bound to have their own unique style of teaching, there are some similar traits of effective instructors.

With Students

• Develop a passion for students, teaching, and learning
• Give prompt feedback to students
• Develop a student-centered approach to learning
• Provide a non-threatening, welcoming environment
• Invite students to ask questions when they don't understand something
• Wait at least 30 second for students to respond to questions
• Learn about your students and what motivates them
• Teach students about self-efficacy and autonomous learning

Course Material

• Understand and demonstrate sound pedagogy and andragogy
• Learn what your students know about the subject and scaffold activities for maximum learning
• Be sure your course learning outcomes are measurable
• Align your course learning outcomes, assessments, and course activities
• Follow the Registrar's Guidelines regarding grades.

Professional Development

• Continue professional development opportunities
• Keep a journal about your teaching experiences
• Invite a colleague to review your course designs and teaching and offer a peer review
• Read student evaluations
• Pray and ask God for guidance with your teaching and learning
• Find a willing and capable faculty mentor
• Continue to reflect on your teaching and develop an attitude of continual course improvement