Tuesday Teaching Talk is a regular feature which, as the name implies, is an opportunity to talk explicitly about teaching (and learning) in the practical and philosophical sense that happens on, you guessed it, Tuesday. Hold on to your hats. The CAST coordinators (yes there are 2 of us) are tasked with supplying TTTs to you. Look for questions, videos, tips, etc. Enjoy!
Here’s today’s teaching tip from the BOK Blog.
Be honest. Be clear. But above all, be passionate.
Connect an out-of-class passion with in-class topics. Love camping or mixology? Point out that you sometimes think about the chemistry of caramelization while cooking smores over the campfire, or relate your efforts to recreate F. Scott Fitzgerald’s favorite libation. Students like a multi-dimensional teacher, and your ability to bring your extracurricular interests to bear on course materials will encourage students to do the same.
What do you think about this?
The Harold Lounge 
I thought this was the norm?
Going off-topic is the best way to learn. As long as you don’t end up drinking at a bar during class time.
That’s where I’d draw the line.
I’m had a number of professors in my x number of years taking classes who were a mystery in terms of their existence as a non-teacher. I think you have it right that there’s a definite line to be drawn.