Fear of Being Judged by Students

The moment a teacher takes a pause and changes the perspective: that I'm not here to impress these students, the teachers can get themselves unstuck from the fear of judgment.

As a teacher teaching adult learners (grad and undergrad students), I sometimes get drowned in this thought: how do I pass beyond the students' collective judgment?

For a teacher, standing in the front/center of the class and trying to do one's job while 30 adults are looking at you, staring at you, and constantly judging you - that's a terrifying experience. Especially, for a new teacher, for a novice teacher.

No matter how much one can "sweet talk" out of this by flipping teaching as learning and saying, it's not about me, it's about the learners, the unwritten rule is: it's always the teacher's responsibility to make sure learning is happening in the classroom.

And this could be one of the reasons why teachers feel judged, and feel under-appreciated by the students.

I know it's harsh. It should not be that way. But shoulds don't mean anything in the real world.

The moment a teacher takes a pause and changes the perspective: that I'm not here to impress these students, the teachers can get themselves unstuck from the fear of judgment.

Here’s what one of the ‘new’ teachers had to say about this change in perspective:

It's something I was very conscious about as well. Starting out young and (fortunately) having had the opportunity to teach undergrad students, I would worry if I looked too young, my students will not take me seriously. 😅

However, when I shifted my focus from me to the students and their learning experience, being judged was no longer a relevant factor. And dealing with it has gotten better with time and experience.

Like I said, this shift in perspective is quite helpful.

Yes, focus on relationships. Establish your authority. Be fair. Be compassionate. Look credible. Demonstrate competence. Smile. Be helpful. Create a positive learning culture. Teach with passion and pride. But also believe that you are beyond their judgment.

You will eventually get free from the fear.