BUS 704 - Business Teaching

Molly Epstein, Ph.D., Associate Professor in the Practice of Management Communication

Business Teaching prepares you to succeed in the classroom as a teacher. This course for third-year Ph.D. students builds on the skills you learned in the Emory University TATTO program. It provides you with the fundamental skills to deliver business content in an engaging way, and then create a classroom dynamic that facilitates learning. This course includes:

• Individual feedback on your presentation style – You will receive detailed feedback on your presentation style. This will either be based on live observation or the video of your "Ivory Staircase" presentation.
• Structured group seminars – We meet several times to discuss teaching topics in a structured classroom environment. During these interactive seminars, we will discuss pedagogical theories and implications, then you will practice by applying these techniques in role-plays and other exercises.
• Individual debrief and coaching on teaching style – After your guest lecture, Professor Epstein provides individual feedback that identifies areas of strength and areas for improvement. You will have several coaching sessions that focus on the teaching style issues of your choice.

This is a competency-based course for which you will receive a grade of credit/no credit. To best prepare yourselves to succeed in your new roles as professors, please complete all assignments and attend all classes.

Learning Objectives

• Explain in your own words the different styles of learning, tactics for delivering business content
• Compare and contrast the various tactics to deliver business content in the classroom
• Identify the ideal tactic for delivering at least three of the types of content you will teach in your class
• Create a plan for managing students in and out of the classroom (gauging participation, facilitating classroom discussion, managing office hours and relationships with students)
• Apply the following tactics for delivering business content (lecture, case teaching method, simulation)
• Organize your course content in logical and meaningful ways (presentations/parts)
• Create learning objectives for your course and tie them to specific assignments
• Synthesize your teaching style with your personal style and increase your comfort level with students

The Coaching-based Format of Business Teaching (BUS 704)
This is a non-traditional class because it relies primarily on one-on-one coaching with Professor Epstein. We will work together to create an individual development plan for each student, and each student will have a highly-customized learning experience.

You may schedule as many coaching sessions as you desire, and we will schedule appointments at convenient times. You will have a minimum of four coaching sessions (as detailed in our schedule). You may also seek out coaching from other sources, including the Goizueta Presentation Coaching Program.

If you are currently teaching as part of your teaching assistantship, I will come observe you with your class and provide detailed feedback.