In Episode 137, host Kevin Patton explores the significance of playfulness, transparency, and authenticity in the teaching persona. Drawing from personal experiences training animals, Kevin explains how play is integral to learning, highlighting the importance of incorporating a sense of fun and embracing failures in the classroom. He also emphasizes the value of transparency by sharing our own mistakes and weaknesses, asserting that being open about flaws fosters authenticity and builds trust with students. By acknowledging vulnerabilities and demonstrating a genuine willingness to learn, educators can create a supportive and engaging learning environment. This thought-provoking discussion reminds us of the power of play and authenticity in effective teaching. 00:00 | Introduction 00:47 | Our Teaching Persona 14:23 | Taking Responsibility 22:03 | Gestures Impart Meaning 32:34 | Playing Around 42:54 | Authenticity 47:46 | Staying Connected   ★ If you cannot see or activate the audio player, go to: theAPprofessor.org/podcast-episode-137.html 🏅 Apply for your credential (badge/certificate) for listening to this episode: theAPprofessor.org/podcast-episode-137.html/#badge ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Please rate & review this podcast so that others can decide whether to give it a try: RateThisPodcast.com/theAPprofessor ❓ Please take the anonymous survey: theAPprofessor.org/survey ☝️ Questions & Feedback: 1-833-LION-DEN (1-833-546-6336) ✔️ Follow The A&P Professor on Twitter, Facebook, Blogger, Revue, Tumblr, or Instagram! @theAPprofessor 📰 Get the once-or-twice-weekly TAPP Science & Education Updates theAPprofessor.org/updates To be playful and serious at the same time is possible, and it defines the ideal mental condition. (John Dewey)   Our Teaching Persona 13.5 minutes Kevin Patton discusses the concept of the teaching persona, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and genuine connection with students. He highlights the significance of being true to oneself while adapting and enhancing certain aspects of personality to create an engaging and effective teaching persona. ★ Storytelling is the Heart of Teaching A&P | TAPP 12 (where Kevin talks about the "storytelling persona") theAPprofessor.org/podcast-episode-12.html ★ Playful & Serious Is the Perfect Combo for A&P | TAPP 13(where Kevin talks about benefits of having a playful persona when teaching) theAPprofessor.org/podcast-episode-13.html ★ End-of-Term Reviews Help Keep Your Course on Track | TAPP 17 (the first introduction of course debriefing in this podcast) theAPprofessor.org/podcast-episode-13.html ★ The Inclusive Anatomy & Physiology Course | Part 2 | TAPP 109 (has a segment on an inclusive classroom demeanor) theAPprofessor.org/podcast-episode-109.html Please rate & review The A&P Professor—it helps others decide whether to give us a try! 😁 ★ RateThisPodcast.com/theAPprofessor   Taking Responsibility 7.5 minutes Kevin explores the idea of the teaching persona further, emphasizing the need for flexibility and adaptability, while challenging how rigorously we should expect students to be as responsible as we imagine they should be. He discusses the importance of being responsive to students' needs and finding a balance between personal authenticity and professional expectations. ★ Should We Extend Deadlines? | Models & Color Codes | TAPP 112 (addresses some aspects of student responsibility) theapprofessor.org/podcast-episode-112.html ★ The Inclusive Anatomy & Physiology Course | Part 1 | TAPP 108 theAPprofessor.org/podcast-episode-108.html   Gestures Impart Meaning 10.5 minutes Explore the captivating world of playfulness and the power of gestures in education with Kevin Patton. Discover how incorporating playful elements and purposeful gestures can ignite student engagement, facilitate comprehension, and foster a vibrant learning environment that encourages active participation and enhances