The Teacher
What makes a good teacher? If you are like many people, then you likely have a list of attributes or qualifications on what makes above average teachers. Good teachers not only have to motivate children to learn but they also have to show them the best ways to learn. Teachers with good communication skills are able to teach in ways that are relevant, meaningful and memorable. It is being passionate about their work and being able to pass that passion and drive on to their students; this is what separates mediocre teachers from stellar teachers.
Some instructors realize that you need to treat the students as “consumers of knowledge,” always being at the top of your game by using resources both inside and outside your particular area of education. But, it is not just about reading journals or manuals; it is more about leaving your comfort zone and immersing yourself in the entire community.
Questioning, being responsive, listening and remembering that each class and student is different are all skills needed to a good teacher. Eliciting responses and helping to develop the quieter students’ skills are equally important. You must be able to push the students to excel while still being human, remaining professional and always respecting each student’s individuality.
Keep in mind that good teaching is not necessarily about having a set agenda or being too rigid. Instead, teachers should remain flexible, not be afraid to experiment and be able to adjust to whatever the circumstances may be; remembering that while grades are important, many learning opportunities and experiences are not graded. You should be able to deviate from your scheduled lecture or other plans easily if there is a better way for students to learn.
There is style involved with teaching as well; should instruction be entertaining? Perhaps, yes, but that does not mean that it should lack meaning or substance; an effective teacher knows that it is not necessary to stand at the front of the room as if glued to the floor, or having all eyes staring at a slide show while you drone on and on. Effective ways of teaching math, literacy skills and computer skills, for example, can come from imagining your class as an orchestra and realizing that each student plays a different instrument at varying proficiencies. Good teachers teach not because they have to; not for the money. It is something that they thoroughly enjoy and can’t imagine doing anything else.
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