March 25, 2009
This week there was an unfortunate turn of events for my preceptor and she was not able to come to clinicals or lecture. Barbara McAlister had to teach a lecture that she had never taught and did not write. I was able to see the art of being flexible in practice. Barbara had to get up at 5:30 this morning and read over the lecture notes to be prepared for class today. Everything worked out well. She directed several of the questions at me since I am currently working in the clinical setting so I felt valuable to the lecture today. I think it definitely helps to lecture on something in which you have experience and recent experience if it is last minute and you don't have preparation time.
After exam review, I talked to some of the student's to see how prepared they felt for their second exam next week and the responses were filled with hesitation. If you recall, I taught the first lecture, then Dr. Arnold taught the second, then Barbara taught the third. This exam had several different teachers with different styles. I have been at all the lectures and though it can be confusing to combine these different lectures, I am confident that the students will do well. The content has been thoroughly covered, they have had test review and case studies, and we have been readily available to review lecture content. I think exams are a reflection of the teaching and that is why I made a point to discuss students' preparation for this upcoming exam.
Clinical was canceled and rescheduled this week. I don't like pushing my clinicals towards the end of the semester, but my preceptor had very valid reasons for not being there this week so I have to remain flexible. I am just thankful for the experience.
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That situation sounds slightly stressful for the students but it might also me a good thing and the students can do some self study- more proactive learning....
ReplyDeleteIn my last practicum, with the permission of the dean, I took an entire group of students for the day when an adjunct quit without notice. It was interesting and challenging, you are correct--flexibility is key to acheiving your goals in educational practicums. I am sure your students will be fine.
ReplyDeleteIt's great you bring this up. Flexibility is definitely a quality we will all need as educators. I've seen this too in my practicum. Once in lab a faculty member was hours late due to the big ice storm we had and the other faculty members had to divide their time between their group and her group. Another day in lab, a faculty member showed up sick and Dr. Tapler sent her home so Dr. Tapler and I supervised and taught her group as well as our own. Unexpected things come up and we just have to role with the punches. In clinical nursing we have to be extremely flexible as well and deal with unexpected situations...this may be a good lesson for your students in also being flexible and dealing with the unexpected. I'm sure they'll do well...
ReplyDeleteSounds like it was a stressful day! You are totally right though, teaching does take quite a bit of flexibility! I hope that your clinicals and the rest of class go well for you. Good luck!
ReplyDelete~cindy