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!
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