Am I a good clinical teacher? What attributes do I possess that make a one? What attributes do I still need to develop?
In my 10 years of clinical teaching, I believe that I can be considered as proficient in my field of practice. Even though I am already proficient in clinical teaching, I am still open for improvements as a clinical educator. The characteristics that I have as clinical teacher are as follows:
1. Clinical knowledge and skills - These knowledge and skills were acquired through the culmination of my school education, the seminars and workshops I underwent, and the clinical experience through patient exposure. In this area, there should be constant improvement and updating.
2. Positive relationships with students - As a clinical instructor, I make sure that students are comfortable with me. I remain approachable through making myself available for feedbacks and consultations.
3. Communication skills - Although I am an introvert and have fears in public speaking, I have trained myself to express myself properly, and to communicate with different kinds of persons according to the situation.
4. Enthusiasm - There was a time when I was very excited whenever new interns arrive, but when I reached my 8th year as a clinical teacher, I found myself burdened and felt like I was stuck in a cycle. Having to repeat a program for every 2 months made me lose my enthusiasm, and I think this is the attribute that I should redevelop.
