Three Lessons That Made Me a Better Teacher

Teaching is an evolving process, and every experience shapes our understanding of classroom dynamics. Through my years of teaching, I've learned several valuable lessons that have significantly enhanced my teaching skills. Here are three key insights that have made me a better educator.

Being Responsible for Your Students’ Learning

One of the most critical lessons I've learned is that responsibility lies with the teacher to ensure effective learning. Once, I found myself in a situation where students were not progressing as expected, leading to unsatisfactory grades. Rather than blaming the students, I realized that it was my responsibility to identify and address the root cause. This meant finding alternate and more effective ways to teach the topic, and understanding the areas where the students were struggling. This experience taught me that as a teacher, you should always be proactive in improving your teaching methods to ensure that all students can understand and engage with the material.

Setting a Positive Example

Another realization was that my students often emulate my behavior. If I was too eager to joke and entertain the class, sometimes at the cost of the task at hand, the students might follow suit. I learned that my act can set a powerful example for my students. When I felt like taking a break to joke and lighten the mood, I now take a more disciplined approach, understanding the importance of focusing on the task. This made me realize the crucial role of setting the right tone and demonstrating discipline and enthusiasm in the classroom.

Building Bridges with Parents

A third and equally important lesson is the significance of parent-teacher communication. I've come to understand that parents, like students, need support and guidance. I've learned that if I can communicate well with my students, I must also find ways to connect with their parents. This experience taught me that student success is a shared responsibility between teachers, students, and parents. For example, if I need to make a phone call about a student's behavioral issues, I always follow up by calling another parent to share the good news. This positive communication often surprises them and reinforces the positive impact on the student's performance and my own credibility.

Engaging Students with Vocabulary

In addition to these lessons, I've learned that vocabulary is a fundamental aspect of learning a new subject. Without a solid understanding of key terms, it's difficult for students to grasp the new concepts. Teachers must have a clear knowledge of the vocabulary used in the subject and its meanings. This helps in delivering the material effectively and ensuring that students build a strong foundation.

Understanding the Role of Education

Another important lesson is that it's essential to help students understand the importance of education beyond social reasons such as being with friends. Explaining the history of schools and the consequences of missing them can provide a deeper understanding and appreciation for the educational journey. This not only motivates students to attend but also helps them recognize the value of their education.

The Importance of Constructive Parental Communication

A final lesson is the positive impact of maintaining a constructive and consistent relationship with parents. When I need to discuss a child's behavior, I actively seek out praise for the child, often speaking to other parents as well. This approach not only reinforces positive behavior but also ends the school day on a positive note, ensuring that both students and teachers leave the day with a sense of accomplishment.

Reflection and Feedback: Ultimately, my students serve as the best barometer of my teaching effectiveness. Regularly, they tell me that I challenge them and help them learn more than any other teacher. Their feedback highlights the impact of pushing them to their limits and the effort they put into their work. While administrative feedback can be insightful and beneficial, it is the direct feedback from my students that keeps me motivated and striving to be a better teacher.