What is teaching?

Teaching is the activity of facilitating learning

Defining teaching as facilitating learning implies that while considerations of
knowledge transfer are no doubt important, they are valuable only in relation to the
quality of learning that they trigger. If the teaching activities do not result in
learning, there has been no teaching. Likewise, if the learning is lacking in quality,
the teaching is unsuccessful to that extent. Finally, there are modes other than that
of knowledge transfer which can play a more effective role in the triggering of
learning. Hence, an excellent teacher needs to go beyond excellent lecturing or
excellent knowledge dissemination.

Characteristics of a Good Teacher

• One of the most important attribute of a good teacher is to be a good
communicator. He should be comfortable explaining things and enjoy doing the
same.
• At times, a teacher might feel like yelling or shouting at students, but a good
teacher is one who knows how to keep the temper in check and act calmly in such
situations.
• A good sense of humor is another great tool that helps a teacher to simplify his
task. Wit and humor, when applied in the proper manner, can form an important
part of a successful teaching program.
• A good teacher must have good time management skills and always value the
importance of time. In fact, wise utilization of time is the hallmark of a good
teacher.
• A teacher should always adopt a fair attitude, when it comes to making any form
of evaluations. He should be fair to his profession and assess students on their
performance, instead of personal rapports and likings.
• A good teacher should have the necessary command over the subject matter he
teaches. This way, he can be comfortable while explaining things. Besides, he will
be equipped with answers of any possible questions that might crop up during the
lecture sessions.
• A teacher should be dedicated towards his work. He should not kill his time in the
classroom and wait for the school bell to ring. Instead, taking out time and
engaging in after-school meetings and activities is what suits him.
• A good teacher should be meticulous and have an eye for detail. In fact, a
disorganized person would find the vocation unsuitable and unfulfilling. Well
thought-out plans and programs for teaching will assist the productivity of a
teacher.
• A good teacher should be a good leader and a good friend. He should also be a
disciplinarian and the students must look up to him.

Preparation for teaching in Nursing

This sequence of courses is designed to prepare nurses and health professionals for
teaching roles. Students acquire essential knowledge and skills in teaching to work
effectively with student, patient, and/or consumer learners in academic, clinical,
and/or professional settings.

Acquired knowledge and skills are applied in a precepted practicum that is

individually tailored to student goals and interests. Courses are offered in classroom
and online learning environments. Role preparation for teaching will enrich
programs of study for currently enrolled master's and doctoral students. The
program is also available to applicants who hold a graduate degree in nursing or a
related health field. Graduates are prepared to assume teaching roles to address the
urgent educational needs in nursing and other health professions.