Characteristics and traits of an effective professor

Over the years, the role of the classroom professor has been defined using various descriptors. Some regard the professor as coach, trainer, mentor, facilitator, or presenter, along with a multitude of other titles all designed to indicate a master purveyor of knowledge. Regardless of the name chosen for the professor, certain fundamental characteristics and traits form the foundation of a truly effective professor, a professor that touches not only the intellect but the very heart and soul of the students. All faculty members, especially those with limited teaching experience, can gain valuable insights into improving their teaching effectiveness by simply emulating the styles of outstanding professors, master teachers. The question becomes one of identifying the defining features of these outstanding professors. The paper discusses the characteristics of an effective professor.