As an expert in the field of education, I have spent considerable time examining the nuances between various educational roles. The distinction between an instructor and a teacher is subtle yet significant, and it can vary depending on the context and the educational system in question. Let's delve into the differences, keeping in mind that the definitions can be somewhat fluid and may overlap in certain scenarios.
Instructor:

1. Skill-Oriented: Instructors are often associated with imparting specific skills or techniques. They focus on practical application and hands-on learning. For instance, a driving instructor teaches someone how to operate a vehicle, or a gym instructor guides individuals through exercise routines.

2. Short-Term Focus: The instruction provided by an instructor is typically for a shorter duration. It is designed to achieve a particular goal or mastery of a skill within a set timeframe.

3. Certification and Training: Instructors often work in fields where certification is crucial. They may be responsible for preparing students for tests or qualifications that validate their skills.

4. Industry-Specific: Many instructors have professional experience in the industry they are teaching. Their expertise is directly applicable to real-world scenarios.

5. Performance-Based: The success of an instructor's teaching is often measured by the performance of the students in practical tasks or assessments.
Teacher:

1. Knowledge-Centric: Teachers are more focused on imparting knowledge and fostering a deep understanding of academic subjects. Their role extends beyond just teaching facts to include critical thinking, analysis, and synthesis of information.

2. Long-Term Development: Teachers are involved in the long-term educational development of students. They guide students through a curriculum that is designed to build a comprehensive understanding of subjects over time.

3. Educational Philosophy: Teachers often have a broader educational philosophy that shapes their teaching style. They may emphasize the importance of creativity, exploration, and the development of a love for learning.

4. Academic Background: Teachers typically have a strong academic background in the subjects they teach. They may have degrees in education or their subject area.

5. Student-Centered Approach: Teachers often employ a student-centered approach, tailoring their teaching methods to the needs and interests of their students.

6. Cultural and Social Development: In addition to academic subjects, teachers play a role in the cultural and social development of students, often taking on the responsibility of character education and civic awareness.
7.
Formative and Summative Assessment: Teachers use a variety of assessment methods to gauge student understanding, including formative assessments that provide ongoing feedback and summative assessments that evaluate learning at the end of a course or unit.
In the United States, while the terms are often used interchangeably, the distinction lies in the nature of the educational experience they provide. A teacher is someone who educates you about a subject, helping you to understand and interpret it, while an instructor is someone who guides you on how to perform or accomplish a specific task. However, it's important to note that in some educational settings, the roles can blend, with individuals taking on aspects of both teaching and instructing.
read more >>

In America, the two words are largely used interchangeably, but there is a difference. Teaching imparts knowledge and instructing imparts skills. Therefore a teacher is one who teaches you about a subject and helps you reach understanding and an instructor is one who instructs you on how to accomplish a task.read more >>