CTE Newsletter - Jan/Feb 2004 (Vol 16, No 3)
J. Herman Blake pushes students, self to new heights
"One person can have a great impact on a person," said Professor J. Herman Blake, Director of the African American Studies Program, at a recent dinner to mark the CTE's tenth Anniversary. Blake stresses that each instructor has the ability to become a mentor who helps students overcome challenges and reach new heights.
In large classes and with limited time, how can you follow Blake's lead? Dr. Blake offers these ideas:
- Get to know your students and their limitations by listening to them. Abandon all preconceived notions; today's students are much more diverse than they outwardly appear.
- Show respect for student intellect by setting the bar high. The work may be a challenge to students at first, but eventual understanding leads to self-satisfaction and motivation to meet the next challenge.
- Be willing to learn yourself. As students succeed, they will ask for more from you. Be willing to try new things and creatively push limits. Remember, there is no limit on the capacity of a person to learn, grow and change.
