The Qualities of a Good Faculty Member in a Medical College
Medical college is notorious for harboring 'psychological' bullies who discourage and demean students. However, there are also faculty members who inspire students with their commitment and dedication. These exceptional educators share a set of qualities that elevate their teaching beyond mere knowledge transmission to a profound learning experience. In this article, we will explore these qualities and why they are essential for effective teaching in a medical college.
1. Understanding the Vastness of the Curriculum
The medical school curriculum is extensive and complex. Good faculties recognize that it is unrealistic for students to master all the intricate details of medicine. They adjust their teaching methods to focus on the 'must-know' content, ensuring that students are equipped with the essential knowledge and skills.
2. Empathy and Understanding of Student Life
Effective faculty members understand that they too were once students. This shared experience allows them to put themselves in the students' shoes, empathizing with their struggles and challenges. They provide mentorship and support, creating an environment where students feel comfortable discussing their problems and concerns.
3. Willingness to Help and Offer Support
A hallmark of a good faculty member is their readiness to assist students with anything, not limited to academic issues. Many medical colleges assign mentors to students, providing a support network that goes beyond the classroom. However, there are cases where students are assigned 'psychological bullies,' creating a detrimental environment that hampers learning.
4. Art of Simplifying Text for Lectures
A good faculty member masters the art of simplifying complex medical terms and concepts. They avoid using PowerPoint presentations or book language, instead opting for engaging methods such as board projections, illustrated lectures, and interactive sessions. An example from my college is a professor in pathology who uses her tablet to project detailed diagrams and explains them while writing, making her lectures more memorable and beneficial.
5. Effective Communication Skills
Effective communication is crucial for a good faculty member. They modulate their voice and speak in an audible tone, ensuring that all students can hear and understand. Some professors drone monotonously, making it difficult for students to maintain focus. An engaging and enthusiastic tone can transform a dull lecture into a fascinating learning experience.
6. Flexibility and Amicability
Some faculty members allow students to engage in other activities during class, understanding that medical students often have multiple commitments. For instance, if a student is having trouble following the lecture due to fatigue or comprehension issues, a flexible approach can help them stay engaged without falling behind. Additionally, faculty members who cracked a smile or occasionally made a pun in class significantly improved their rapport with students.
7. Balancing Workload and Personal Commitments
Supportive faculty members recognize that medical students have other subjects and commitments to balance. They offer their support through various means, such as attending literary events, being present for tests, or leaving early to allow students to study. Small gestures like these can have a lasting positive impact on students' morale.
8. Patience and Forgiveness
To conclude, good faculty members are patient and do not hold grudges against students, who are still in the process of learning and often make mistakes. They provide guidance and help students improve, fostering a learning environment where growth and development are prioritized.
Ultimately, the qualities of a good faculty member in a medical college go beyond mere academic knowledge. They are patient, understanding, supportive, and effective communicators who create a positive and enriching learning experience for their students. By embodying these qualities, they not only enhance their students' educational journey but also shape the future healthcare professionals of tomorrow.