How to not be nervous while teaching a class that predominantly consists of adult male Students?

[Anonymous]

For context: I am 23 years old. I don't have any prior experience in teaching and for trial I've to teach at a technical university for few months. The students are mostly adult men, who are quite around my age. Also I'm often mistaken for a high-schooler as I'm on the skinnier side and thus I can confirm that I may not look like a teacher yet.

I'm very introverted (with social awkwardness) and had always studied at all-women educational institutions. I never had any male friends except my long-distance online ex who I met twice. I would love to teach at a university (it's one of the most respectable jobs in my country) but the thought of starting it by teaching a male-dominated classroom is scaring me. Could anybody advise me on what to expect and how to calm my nerves?

Thank you.

[glennos89]

Be confident, and make sure you don't let any negative comments pass by without standing up for yourself! Just show them you are not a woman that they wanne mess around with

[Asker]

Thanks a lot. I really hope that I can manage it that way!

[glennos89]

You'll be fine I'm sure 😉

[firenine909]

Most those guys aren’t waiting for you to slip up. They won’t care about you that much

[Asker]

That's not what I meant. Being a teacher, you've to hold control over the classroom. However, I've often heard from young teachers that they find it quite difficult to teach older teenagers or young adults as they may sense that the teacher lacks enough control or is nervous about them and hence they may take advantage of the situation or make fun of the teacher. Being their same age I fear that they may make fun of me or bully me for my nervousness as it's my first job. Also I believe it's bit easier to teach a class if it has a balance of sexes.

[AI Opinion]

Feeling nervous is natural, especially in a new environment. Here are some strategies to help ease your nerves:

1. Preparation: Familiarize yourself thoroughly with your teaching material. Confidence in your content helps build overall confidence.

2. Focus on Engagement: Use interactive teaching methods to encourage participation, which can shift focus from your nervousness to student engagement.

3. Establish Authority: Dress professionally and maintain eye contact to convey confidence and authority.

4. Connect Personally: Relate your personal learning experiences to create a relatable and approachable persona.

5. Practice Deep Breathing: Techniques like deep breathing can reduce anxiety before and during class.

Gaining experience will gradually build your confidence.

[jimmy14532]

Do ur best to focus on the subject ur teaching