Characteristics of a Capable University Teacher from the Student's Point of View

Determining factors affecting teacher's evaluation from the student's point of view (learners) could greatly influence the quality of education. This study aims at identifying those characteristics which qulify a university teacher cabale in student's opinions.

In this descriptive, cross – sectional study, in 2009-2010, 800 students of Ilam University of medical sciences were selected. Multi – stage stratified random sampling was used for sample selection. A standard questionnaire was used for data collection, and data were analyzed afterwards.

68% of the students were female and 52.7% were undergraduates/PhD candidates. The mean for teaching style, interpersonal relationships, the teacher's personal characteristics and the knowledge seeking attitude of the teacher were 83.8±11.3, 83.7±13.9, 81.9±11.2 and 71.6±11.3, respectively. There was a significant relation between student's viewpoints and sex, their field of study, educational level and faculty (p<0.05).

Teaching style, interpersonal relationships, personal characteristics and the knowledge – seeking attitude were respective the most import characteristics of a capable University teacher. Student's needs, interests and viewpoints at different educational levels are not necessarily identical; therefore, it is suggested that these discrepancies be considered in educational planning.