Easily Avoidable Mistakes

Lessons I've learned

1. Don’t teach beyond the course prerequisites. As tempting as it might be to illustrate an idea with some simple calculus, it will only frustrate the large majority of your students if they have never had calculus before.

2. Be on time. Better yet, be early. Set up and double check all the equipment you plan to use.

3. Don’t belittle student comments or questions. Ignorance is not bliss especially when you have just said something and this was plainly obvious to most of the class. Before you react consider how that student will feel and also the chilling effect it will have on the future willingness of other students to speak up.

4. Avoid scheduling important events on religious holidays. You only make this mistake once! Check the schedule against the university calendar as well to avoid scheduling events over a break.

5. Monday exams. Avoid. It may seem like a good idea to give your students the weekend to study but they won’t see it that way!

What things do you struggle with? Have any tips you’d like to share? Chat with other teachers in our Teacher Q&A area!