The Influence of Instructor-Student Rapport on Instructors’ Professional and Organizational Outcomes

• In Event: Understanding and Predicting Student Communication

Abstract

Students and teachers have relational goals and needs, yet little research has examined the relational goals of instructors and how achieving those goals may affect instructor outcomes. This study examined instructors’ perspectives on instructor-student rapport. Results revealed instructors who build rapport with students are likely to experience teaching satisfaction, affective commitment to the institution, and experience enhanced teaching efficacy. However, instructor-student rapport was not related to instructor morale. The findings in this study highlight the importance of positive instructor-student relationships in the classroom and the implications for both instructors and administrators.

Authors

• Annie Beck, University of Kentucky

• Brandi N Frisby, U of Kentucky

• Audrey Bachman, U of Kentucky

• Cynthia Byars, U of Kentucky

• Cynthia Lamberth, U of Kentucky

• Jason Thompson, U of Kentucky