University Teachers' 'Good Teacher' Characteristics and 'Undesirable Behaviors'

Abstract

The aim of this study is to explore the characteristics of a good university teacher and undesirable behaviors. The study employed qualitative phenomenological research design. The research group consisted of 13 students from different departments from two universities in the Western Black Sea region of Türkiye in the 2022-2023 academic year. Face-to-face interviews were analysed using descriptive and content analysis. Participants stated that the most important characteristics of a good teacher were communication skills and empathy, and that using a variety of teaching techniques and methods to attract students' attention, rather than lecturing in a monotonous manner, is important. Students' experiences of a good university teacher were highlighted as increasing academic success and building self-confidence. Undesirable teacher behaviors were identified as faculty members' demeaning attitudes, excessively strict/serious behaviors, a "I'll just teach you my lesson and leave" mentality, and relying solely on PowerPoint presentations. Students' experiences of undesirable behavior by university teachers were identified as causing absenteeism and undermining self-confidence. The findings provide recommendations for enhancing university teachers’ professional competence and informing teacher training programs.