Student Perceptions of Effective College Teachers

Abstract

Being an effective college teacher is typically a major goal of all faculty, especially junior faculty on the tenure-track. As a new tenure-track faculty member interested in improving his teaching skills (and student ratings), the author surveyed aerospace students at Middle Tennessee State University over a three-year period to gain insight into what students consider to be an effective college teacher. The author’s findings reveal that students prefer fun and interesting classes where material is clearly explained and reviews and study guides are provided to help students better prepare for tests. Students also most benefit from courses taught by motivated and passionate professors who make the class fun and interesting by incorporating a great deal of hands-on activities and group discussion. Further, they dislike a boring/monotone professor who lectures the entire class period and is unable to clearly explain the material. Finally, students value professors who are passionate and have a sincere desire to teach, show real respect/caring for students, and are knowledgeable of the subject they are teaching.