Ir al contenido principal

What makes a good teacher?


This is a short but complex question that a teacher should ask herself when teaching. The idea of learning by doing allows students to experience the content of learning. Is this your teaching philosophy? Do you think you are a good teacher? There are many characteristics, techniques, etc, that make for a good teacher, but they may be as varied as the teachers themselves. However, there are certain qualities and practices which contribute immensely to becoming a better teacher. Take some minutes to read the following list to help you reflect on yourself as a teacher as well as your practice:

  • A good teacher loves teaching.
  • A good teacher understands that some days the most important things may not be academic.
  • A good teacher must be “competent” and have a command of the contents to be taught.
  • A good teacher sets high expectations for their students and holds the students to those expectations.
  • A good teacher has a sense of humour and is able to use humour as part of their teaching practice, so that the ice breaks and students learn in a more relaxed atmosphere.
  • A good teacher not only motivates students to learn, but also teaches them HOW to learn, in a manner that is relevant, meaningful and memorable.
  • A good teacher always remembers that each student and class is different, and realizes that they are the conductors and the class are the orchestra. All the students play different instruments and at varying degrees of proficiency.
  • A good teacher firmly supports the idea that teaching is about being human, respectful and professional at all times.
  • A good teacher is flexible and creative; a good teacher “takes risks” and is able to deviate from the course syllabus easily when there is more and better learning elsewhere.
  • A good teacher has “common sense” and has the confidence to react and adjust to changing circumstances.
  • A good teacher reflects on their own work.
  • At the end of the day a good teacher experiences pleasure and intrinsic rewards.

Moreover, remember that you don´t learn to teach only by getting a degree and becoming certified. You learn to teach in much the same way you learn to drive, by driving. You learn to teach by teaching, making mistakes, learning from them and improving.
And most importantly, teach because you want to. A good teacher couldn´t imagine doing anything else!

Comentarios

Entradas populares de este blog

What´s Hispanic Heritage Month? 10 Funny or Anecdotal Facts

  What is Hispanic Heritage Month? Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15 to October 15 each year in the United States, is a time to recognize and honor the rich culture, history, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities. It is a month-long celebration of the diverse backgrounds and traditions of people from 21 Spanish-speaking countries, spanning from Central and South America to Spain and the Caribbean. This celebration traces its origins back to 1968, when it began as a week-long event under President Lyndon B. Johnson. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan extended it to a full month, allowing more time to appreciate the achievements and cultural influence of Hispanic Americans. Hispanic Heritage Month is not only a reminder of the struggles and triumphs of this community but also a vibrant opportunity to immerse in the food, music, dance, art, and heritage that make up this vital part of American society. Why September 15? The start of Hispanic Heritage Month

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: 10 Activities to Enrich Your Classroom

  Hispanic Heritage Month , celebrated from September 15 to October 15, offers a wonderful opportunity to honor and explore the rich cultural contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. As educators, it’s essential to bring this celebration into the classroom, allowing students to learn about and appreciate the diverse cultures and histories that shape our world. Here’s why celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month is important and some engaging activities to help your students connect with the theme. Why Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month? Promotes Cultural Awareness: It helps students understand and appreciate the diversity within Hispanic cultures, fostering a sense of respect and inclusivity. Encourages Inclusivity: Highlighting Hispanic heritage provides students with role models and stories that reflect their own backgrounds and experiences. Enhances Learning: Integrating cultural celebrations into your curriculum enriches students' knowledge and broadens their perspectives

How to Discover and Embrace Your Hispanic Heritage: A Comprehensive Guide

Hispanic heritage plays a crucial role in shaping the identity of millions of people across the globe. If you're looking to reconnect with your roots, discovering and embracing your heritage can be a deeply rewarding experience. Here’s a guide to help you explore and celebrate your cultural background. 1. Research Your Family Tree A meaningful starting point for learning about your Hispanic heritage is researching your family tree. Using genealogy tools can help you trace your ancestry, uncover family stories, and learn more about the countries your ancestors came from. Family documents and oral histories often provide invaluable insights into your heritage. 2. Celebrate Hispanic Traditions and Holidays Once you’ve learned more about your family background, participating in Hispanic traditions and holidays is a powerful way to connect with your heritage. Celebrations like Día de los Muertos in Mexico or La Tomatina in Spain bring families together through festive customs. Embracin