Do I ask that they address me by my first or last name?
- There is no hard and fast rule which answers this question. It is a decision that you should make for yourself after having considered a few issues. Many people are more comfortable having students address them by their last name, but that is not universal, nor is it requisite to good teaching. However, if you are very close in age to your students, consider such questions as: Will your authority be undermined if you allow your students to call you by your first name? It is most important that you be comfortable with the name which they call you by. However, consider the messages which each decision sends to the students. If your authority is tenuous to begin with, consider having them call you by your last name. On the other hand, if your teaching style is casual, and your classrooms are in general quite respectful and under control, going by your first name should not present any problems. Do what feels comfortable for you.
Address questions or comments about TEP or this site to:
Georgeanne Cooper, Program Director, 64 PLC
Phone: 541-346-2177 Fax: 541-346-2184
Teaching Effectiveness Program, Teaching and Learning Center, University of Oregon.
Last Modified:
07/07/09