What makes a good teacher?
There is a big difference between impressions of the noble teaching profession and the reality in the classroom.
In an article entitled “Tips on becoming a teacher” published June 28, 2007 by Dr. R.J. Kizlik, there are several qualities of a “good” teacher.
Good teachers…
- know how to explain, since being able to make the students comprehend how something works is important.
- are calm under pressure and can stifle any urge to scream and yell at students, parents, fellow teachers and administrators.
- know how to laugh. Having a sense of humor can be a powerful tool in teaching.
- like and can handle people in a particular age group.
- are objective and fair, especially when it comes to performance assessments.
- use their common sense or are practical. This comes in handy when sizing up situations and coming up with decisions quickly.
- know the things they teach. High school students need in-depth knowledge about subjects that teachers should provide.
- have high expectations not only from the students but also from themselves.
- are detail-oriented and can manage time well.
- are good leaders, which also translates to being good followers.
If you are cut out for the job, and really have the passion for it, the next step is becoming a better teacher. Consider it a New Year’s resolution for 2008!
How can this be done? Try our tips below!
- Evaluate your performance using student and peer reviews.
- Ask a full-time member of the faculty to observe how you teach, and get his or her insights.
- Observe classes conducted by the outstanding teachers in your department to get some ideas on how it’s supposed to be done.
- Submit the tests or lesson plans you prepare to a colleague for his or her opinion.
- Identify your students’ learning needs and styles.
- Establish good rapport with your students.
- Go to class five to ten minutes early to prepare for the class appropriately.
- Don’t settle with just having a syllabus; have a plan for the day.
- Add variation in the routine, like occasional oral reports and guest speakers, collaborative assignments or group activities.
- Set aside time for some reflection on your teaching, classroom behavior and success of the lessons you taught.
- Surf the web for the newest teaching methods available.
Putting the future of students in your hands is a trust between their parents and yourself. So what better time for teaching improvement than the start of the year? Good luck!
Sources:
Kizlik, R.J. (n.d.) Tips on becoming a teacher. Retrieved January 2, 2008 from
http://www.adprima.com/tipson.htm
n. a. (n.d.) Helping yourself become a better teacher. Retrieved January 2, 2008 from
http://www.csuohio.edu/gradcollege/student/handbook/GAHandbookCH13.pdf
Hipple, Ted and McClam, Tricia. (n.d.) Tips for better teaching. Retrieved January 2, 2008 from
http://chronicle.com/jobs/2002/03/2002031102c.htm
(Published 07 January 2008, Smart Schools Program)
