What should instructors closely evaluate regarding their teaching?

Instructors should closely evaluate their intentions, as this foundational aspect significantly influences their teaching effectiveness and the overall experience of their students. Understanding one's intentions helps clarify the purpose of the instruction and ensures that the teaching aligns with the desired outcomes for the class.

When instructors are aware of their intentions, they can make more conscious choices regarding the content, delivery, and engagement strategies used in their sessions. This introspection fosters a more authentic teaching style, allowing instructors to connect meaningfully with their participants and create a positive learning environment.

While personal goals, past experiences, and students' preferences are all important for refining teaching practice, they may operate more as secondary influences. Personal goals can help shape an instructor's approach, but they should not overshadow the immediate needs and atmosphere of the class. Similarly, past experiences can inform current practices, yet without a clear understanding of current intentions, they may not be effectively utilized. On the other hand, paying attention to students' preferences is crucial for addressing their needs but should be balanced with the instructor’s intentions to ensure that the overall class direction supports learning in a coherent manner.