Effective Communication with Instructors

No two people are the same, and this can be said for the teaching methods of instructors.  Understanding and effectively communicating with your instructor is exceptionally important.  You will need to be able to clarify things with them in order to obtain the level of education you are seeking.  Successful students maintain an open line of contact, regardless of that form of communication whether it is in their office, before or after class, and even in e-mail form.  Telling yourself you do not need to communicate with your instructor is silly, and it is something every student must do.

How Do I Do It?

The methods are simple really.  There are several differing ways one can approach and communicate with each of their instructors.  First, ask questions.  This is really very simple and very important to your learning process.  By asking questions your instructor will get a feel for what it is you are struggling with.  They will be able to show you the information in new ways, or explain it to you in a different manner so as to better your understanding of the content. 

Finding a good time to talk one on one with your instructor is always important.  A face to face meeting is never harmful, only helpful.  Here they can instruct you on an individual basis, and further explain content that is missing, things you might not have caught, or put you on the right path to finding the information on your own.  Utilizing your instructor’s office hours for this purpose is extremely efficient.  They always have open door hours, and being sure you reach them in time is important. 

Always show your instructor respect.  Be sure you know how your instructor prefers to be addressed, and if you did not catch this bit during the beginning of class, approach them afterwards and see what they prefer.  When discussing coursework with your instructor, avoid using “street” language, as it may be offensive or interpreted wrongly and is extremely unprofessional.  Remain as professional and respectful as possible in any contact you have with your instructor. 

These few simple steps will allow you to reach out to your instructors for open methods of communication.  There is nothing you cannot ask that is within reason, and they will be willing to help you in any way possible.  Keep open communication with your instructors, in the end it will make a world of difference.