good writing instructor.

This is not Merrilee, it's Missy' Blog....sorry, I forgot to log in.....

I have learned that being a good writing instructor one must be very versatile. It helps to know a little bit about many subject areas. It also helps to be aware of the many different learning styles that students have. Also, don't be pushy, especially when students are already stumped...it only deepens their anxiety. Give them a safe environment to where they can feel comfortable in sharing their true feelings. In any learning environment, it helps to have a good sense of humor. This makes students relax, and makes you approachable for questions. It also helps to accentuate the positive....(I just had a flash back of the Disney Song of the South...now that song is going to be stuck in my head all night)....Anyway, it's true, if you are too critical of a student's work, they are liable to shut down complete. Always have something good to say. Furthermore, I do feel there is a difference in being a teacher and being an Educator. It may be a fine line, but it's the one that separates the men from the boys, or the women from the girls, as it may be. An educator is that special someone who is willing to go that extra mile to help others learn, and who is a life long learner themselves. Many teachers just run through their routines and put in their time, not really caring what kind of students that they produce. Which one are you?