The Inspiration Behind My Teaching Journey: Reflections on Influential Teachers
Reflecting on my journey as a teacher, certain educators during my school days have left an indelible mark on me. The experiences I had with these teachers provided invaluable insights into the art and responsibility of teaching. This article delves into the memories of a particularly influential teacher from my childhood, the lessons I learned from him, and how I applied these lessons in my own teaching career.
My time in Year 5 under Mr. Paul Channing's tutelage in 1985 at Bungaree Primary School in Western Australia. Mr. Channing's approach to teaching was as flawed as it was harsh. He employed a form of psychological abuse on his students, creating a toxic learning environment. This mentorship, although damaging, was a pivotal moment in shaping my understanding of how not to conduct a classroom.
The Harsh Realities of a Toxic Learning Environment
Channing's methods involved constant ridicule and bullying of students who did not meet his exacting standards. He encouraged peer pressure and created a culture of negativity, often leading to physical and verbal abuse. For instance, I vividly remember him targeting an ESL student for not having enough English skills. The experience was traumatic and opened my eyes to the potential harm that can be done under the guise of 'teaching'. This realization has always been a cornerstone of my beliefs as a teacher.
The impact of this experience was further compounded by the principal, who exhibited similar uncaring behavior towards the students. Although he was a great teacher with a dry sense of humor and good teaching methods, his failings as a person were evident, and his actions towards students were questionable. It is a testimony to human nature that some individuals can separate their professional and personal lives, while others cannot, leading to harmful scenarios in the classroom.
The Positive Mentor: Mr. Saul Bruckner
Conversely, there were teachers who represented the opposite end of the spectrum. Mr. Saul Bruckner, from Edward R Murrow High School, stands out as a beacon of positivity and professionalism. He taught Advanced Placement US History, and his no-nonsense approach, combined with a dry sense of humor, made his class engaging and memorable. His teaching methods were fair, and he had an excellent rapport with students. His ability to remember every student's name was astounding and indicative of his dedication to personalization in education.
Lessons from Other Influential Teachers
Beyond Mr. Channing and Mr. Bruckner, there were several other teachers whose influence extended beyond the classroom. For instance, Mr. Wood, a music teacher, demonstrated the importance of maintaining composure in the face of student misbehavior. He showed that a teacher's respect from their students can be achieved through professionalism and restraint rather than aggression.
Mr. Woods, the other music teacher, instilled in his students the joy of embracing unique interests in music. He encouraged exploration and creativity, even introducing less conventional genres such as Spider-Man-themed educational materials. This approach helped him connect with his students on a personal level and fostered a love for learning across various disciplines.
The Lasting Influence of Mrs. Walton
The teacher who had the most enduring impact on my personal and professional life was Mrs. Walton. In my second year at the junior school, she transformed my love for books into a passion for reading. She walked me through the school library, allowing me to pick books that piqued my interest. This was a first for me, as I usually preferred to daydream rather than complete my work on time. Mrs. Walton recognized my enthusiasm for reading and supported it by providing books that stretched me intellectually and emotionally. Her copy of 'Wuthering Heights' was a pivotal moment, opening a whole new world to me.
More importantly, Mrs. Walton taught me the power of aligning instruction with a child's interests. One of my students, a reluctant learner obsessed with the Avengers, was given a series of math and English books themed around Spider-Man. The promise of a Spider-Man reward for completing work was enough to motivate him to put in the effort. Ironically, the excitement was so great that he showed the books to his mother, but the strategy worked nonetheless. This experience highlighted for me how tailoring lessons to fit a child's interests can significantly enhance engagement and learning outcomes.
Reflecting on these experiences, I have learned that the key to effective teaching lies in empathy, fairness, and respect. Whether it be fair and engaging lesson plans, managing disruptive behavior with professionalism, or recognizing and fostering a student's individual passions, these are invaluable lessons that shape a teacher's approach to education.
In conclusion, the teachers who left the strongest imprint on my life and my teaching philosophy were those who demonstrated not only pedagogical skills but also strong moral and ethical principles. By following in their footsteps, I strive to create a learning environment that is both nurturing and stimulating, ensuring that every child is given the opportunity to grow and thrive.