Teaching is actually pretty easy. I imagine that you may feel as though its a juggernaught awaiting your soul, but truthfully, for you, it really is a chance to shine. George once said that teaching is like acting without applause, which it really is.
When I taught my first class for him, I told George "I don't know what I'm doing". His response astounded me... "Neither do I".
George postulated that very few academics are actually taught how to teach. UTS offers great suggestions and seminars, but most of us are too busy actually researching and doing other things to really want to learn to teach the plebes. Yet by having fun with it, placing myself in my students' shoes a bit, making eye contact, and importantly, encouraging discussion instead of lecturing, I found success doing it. You will too, Mel. I really do think you'll be a fantastic Prof.
i really loved Julian the Magician, if you're in the mood for a novel. otherwise, there's supposed to be a new selected works (poetry) out sometime this year (i think). also, Rosemary Sullivan's biography of MacEwan (Shadowmaker) is very good. i hope you enjoy.
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When I taught my first class for him, I told George "I don't know what I'm doing". His response astounded me...
"Neither do I".
George postulated that very few academics are actually taught how to teach. UTS offers great suggestions and seminars, but most of us are too busy actually researching and doing other things to really want to learn to teach the plebes. Yet by having fun with it, placing myself in my students' shoes a bit, making eye contact, and importantly, encouraging discussion instead of lecturing, I found success doing it. You will too, Mel. I really do think you'll be a fantastic Prof.
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i hope you enjoy.
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