The Thank an Instructor program has received nearly 800 comments from students (784 to be exact) about how instructors make a difference. The program provides an opportunity for UWM students and alumni to submit a note expressing appreciation for an instructor who made a difference in their education.
Based on student notes in the Thank an Instructor program, here are ten teaching tips for faculty that reflect what students said mattered most to them:
- Show Genuine Care and Empathy. Students deeply valued instructors who were kind, patient, and understanding—especially during personal or academic challenges.
- Tip: Make space for empathy. Acknowledge students’ struggles and offer flexibility when needed.
- Believe in Your Students. Many students mentioned that their confidence grew because a professor believed in them when they didn’t believe in themselves.
- Tip: Express belief in your students’ potential. A few encouraging words can have a lasting impact.
- Make Complex Concepts Accessible. Students appreciated when instructors broke down difficult material into understandable parts and used real-world examples.
- Tip: Use analogies, examples, and scaffolding to make learning more approachable.
- Foster Open and Safe Communication. Students felt empowered when they could ask questions without fear of judgment.
- Tip: Normalize questions and mistakes. Create a classroom culture where curiosity is welcomed.
- Be Passionate and Enthusiastic. Passionate teaching was repeatedly cited as inspiring and motivating.
- Tip: Let your enthusiasm for the subject show—it’s contagious and energizing for students.
- Design Engaging and Varied Learning Experiences. Students loved courses that included interactive elements, diverse assignments, and creative approaches.
- Tip: Mix lectures with discussions, projects, and hands-on activities to keep learning dynamic.
- Be Available and Responsive. Office hours, timely feedback, and responsiveness to emails made students feel supported.
- Tip: Be accessible and responsive. Even short check-ins can make students feel seen and valued.
- Connect Learning to Real Life. Students appreciated when instructors tied course content to practical applications or career paths.
- Tip: Highlight how course concepts apply beyond the classroom to increase relevance and motivation.
- Encourage Reflection and Growth. Students highlighted how a class helped them discover new interests or career paths.
- Tip: Prompt students to reflect on their learning and how it connects to their goals and identity.
- Build Community and Belonging. Students cherished feeling part of a learning community where they could be themselves.
- Tip: Use group work, discussions, and inclusive practices to foster connection and belonging.