frequent teacher mistakes that can be avoided (1)
TRANSCRIPT
Pedagogical Rules and Regulations for Teachers
and Working on Educational Environment
10 Frequent Teacher Mistakes that Can be Avoided
COLLECTED BY BERHANU TADDES TAYE PRESENTED TO THE TRAINERS
August, 9 2016
Contents
10 Frequent Teacher Mistakes that Can be Avoided .................................................................................... 1
Introduction about this theme Teaching Expert ............................................................................................. 5
1. Bringing Personal Problems to Work ................................................................................................... 6
1.2. Failure to Adapt or Change ........................................................................................................... 6
1.3. Failure to Communicate with Parents ........................................................................................... 7
1.4. Failure to Keep Up with Grading .................................................................................................. 8
1.5. Gossiping about Other Teachers/Students/Parents ....................................................................... 9
1.6. Lack of Adequate Preparation ....................................................................................................... 9
1.7. Lack of Structure ......................................................................................................................... 10
1.8. Overuse of Discipline Referrals .................................................................................................. 11
1.9. Self Isolation ............................................................................................................................... 11
1.10. Yelling At Students ................................................................................................................. 12
2. 24 Ways Teachers Can Build a Trusting Relationship with Their Principal ...................................... 14
2.1. Common Dreams and What They Supposedly Mean ................................................................. 16
1. Assume a Leadership Role .......................................................................................................... 16
2. Be Dependable ................................................................................................................................ 16
3. Be Organized ................................................................................................................................... 17
4. Be Prepared Every Single Day ......................................................................................................... 17
5. Be Professional ................................................................................................................................ 17
6. Demonstrate a Desire to Improve .................................................................................................. 18
7. Demonstrate a Mastery of Content ................................................................................................ 18
8. Demonstrate a Propensity to Handle Adversity ............................................................................. 19
9. Demonstrate Consistent Student Growth ...................................................................................... 19
10. Don’t Be Demanding ..................................................................................................................... 20
11. Go Above and Beyond ................................................................................................................... 20
12. Have a Positive Attitude ................................................................................................................ 20
13. Minimize the Number of Students Sent to the Office .................................................................. 21
14. Open up Your Classroom .............................................................................................................. 21
15. Own Up to Mistakes ...................................................................................................................... 22
16. Put Your Students First ................................................................................................................. 22
17. Seek Out Advice ............................................................................................................................ 22
18. Spend Extra Time Working in Your Classroom .............................................................................. 23
19. Take Suggestions and Apply Them to Your Classroom ................................................................. 23
20. Utilize District Technology and Resources .................................................................................... 23
21. Value Your Principal’s Time ........................................................................................................... 24
22. When Given a Task, Understand That Quality and Timeliness Matters ....................................... 24
23. Work Well With Other Teachers ................................................................................................... 24
24. Work Well With Parents ............................................................................................................... 25
3. Exceptional Things that Great Teachers Do Making Them Special ................................................... 26
4. Helping Students - It's What Teachers Do .......................................................................................... 34
4.1. Provide Students with a Solid Education .................................................................................... 36
4.2. Push Students to Be Successful .................................................................................................. 37
4.3. Provide Students with Character Education ................................................................................ 38
4.4. Provide Students with Structure .................................................................................................. 38
4.5. Hold Students Accountable ......................................................................................................... 39
4.6. Be There in Times of Crisis ........................................................................................................ 39
4.7. Go Above and Beyond ................................................................................................................ 40
4.8. Teacher as Classroom Manager .................................................................................................. 41
4.9. Teacher as Collaborator .............................................................................................................. 42
4.10. Teacher as Communicator ...................................................................................................... 43
4.11. Teacher as Content Expert ...................................................................................................... 43
4.12. Teacher as Facilitator .............................................................................................................. 44
4.13. Teacher as Mentor ................................................................................................................... 44
4.14. Teacher as Protector ................................................................................................................ 45
4.15. Teacher as Researcher ............................................................................................................. 46
4.16. Teacher as Role Model ........................................................................................................... 46
4.17. Teacher as Scape Goat ............................................................................................................ 47
10 Useful Skills Modern Teachers Need ..................................................................................................... 48
1. Patience ......................................................................................................................................... 48
2. Understanding of New Technology ............................................................................................ 49
3. Creative Imagination ................................................................................................................... 49
4. Team Player .................................................................................................................................. 50
5. Manage Online Reputation ......................................................................................................... 50
6. Communication ............................................................................................................................ 51
7. Know How to Find Engaging Resources .................................................................................... 51
8. Continuous Learning ................................................................................................................... 52
9. Know When to Slow Down .......................................................................................................... 52
10. Adaptability ................................................................................................................................ 53
5. Agreed upon National professional code of ethics of teachers ........................................................... 53
5.1. Teacher and his/her profession. .................................................................................................. 54
5.2. The teacher and the students. ...................................................................................................... 55
5.3. The teacher and his/her colleagues. ............................................................................................ 55
5.4. Teacher and students’ parents. .................................................................................................... 56
5.5. The teacher and society ............................................................................................................... 56
5.6. The teacher and his/her professional association ........................................................................ 57
5.6.1. Prospective development ................................................................................................... 58
By Derrick Meador
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Introduction about this theme Teaching Expert
No teacher is perfect. We all make mistakes. Mistakes come in a
myriad of sizes. There are those “unforgivable” mistakes that
will likely cost of us our job. These mistakes are rarely made,
but often generate media attention at least on the local level. The
majority of teacher mistakes are small in nature, but they can
have a significant effect on the students we are charged to teach.
The terrific news is that most teacher mistakes are entirely
avoidable. These mistakes are typically born out of inexperience
and ignorance meaning that they are correctable and
preventable.
1. Bringing Personal Problems to Work
We all face personal adversity at some point in our career. It is
essential that we do not allow our personal problems to impact
our classrooms. Your students need you to be 100% focused on
pouring into them. Our students need us to provide stability,
normalcy, and a natural calm. Teaching should be our escape.
The hours of 8-3 should be a safe haven free from the issues that
await us outside of school hours.
If personal problems are interfering with your ability to teach, you should take a few days off to deal with the situation.
1.2. Failure to Adapt or Change
Teaching is continuously evolving and changing. There is
always something bigger and better than what we did yesterday.
Teachers must be willing to embrace change. They must stay
up-to-date with the latest educational trends, adjust their
philosophy, and improve all areas including the ones, which
they already do well.
They must recognize that every day, every year, every student,
and every class are different. They must sense when something
is not working and be willing to find a replacement that will
work. They must adapt to their students, rather than expecting
their students to adapt to them. Teachers must embrace change,
or they will be left behind.
1.3. Failure to Communicate with Parents
Teachers must actively pursue an open communication line
between themselves and the parents of the students that they
teach. Teachers who shy away from parental communication are
doing themselves a disservice in the long term. Parents can be
your best friend or your worst enemy. It is vital to establish
proactive communication with every parent early in the year so
that it is easier to address issues that may arise throughout the
year. These early communications should be positive in nature.
Thanks to technology, there are many ways to communicate
with an individual parent or a group of parents. Failing to take
advantage of these communication tools can limit your overall
effectiveness as a teacher.
1.4. Failure to Keep Up with Grading
Grading papers is monotonous and time consuming. Very few
teachers like to grade papers, but it is an essential duty of being
a teacher. Grading validates a student’s work. It provides them
with valuable feedback, which can spur growth. Teachers who
get behind find it nearly impossible to catch up. A good rule of
thumb is that papers should be graded and recorded within 2-3
days of an assignment’s due date. Teachers should be putting in
an average of 4-6 grades per week. Teachers do themselves an
injustice when they assign an inordinate amount of homework
each night. In most cases, 8-10 well thought out problems can
help you identify whether a student understand a particular
concept or needs more remediation.
1.5. Gossiping about Other Teachers/Students/Parents
Gossip will destroy relationships between teachers, students, and
parents. School gossip can be defined as discussing or sharing
information about an individual that may embarrass that
individual and/or does not have a direct bearing on the education
of a student. It does not have any place at school, yet walk into
virtually any teacher’s lounge in America, and you are likely to
hear teachers talking about another teacher, a student, or a parent
in this manner. Gossip can quickly cause a rift amongst faculty
and staff members often interfering with the overall school
atmosphere and student learning.
1.6. Lack of Adequate Preparation
Teaching is harder than many people believe. Teachers may
have set hours of 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. with summers off, but
most spend a lot of that time grading papers, preparing for the
next day’s lessons, or researching methods to improve what they
currently do. The best teachers often arrive early and stay late.
They spend a significant amount of their summers attending
professional development workshops hoping to learn something
they can apply to their classroom. It takes a lot of time to be
adequately prepared for every lesson, every day. Teachers that
do not spend the necessary preparation time will be
overwhelmed and ineffective.
1.7. Lack of Structure
Teachers are an authoritative figure by design. Students are
going to test that authority quickly. Many teachers do
themselves a disservice by attempting to distance themselves
from that role. They lack the structure necessary for their
students to thrive. Students respond positively to a structured
learning environment. Structure does not mean that you are a
dictator unwilling to listen to your students. It means that you
are organized, have high expectations and hold your students
accountable for their individual actions. It is better to be
respected than it is to be liked. Too many teachers worry about
the latter, when it is the former that will produce the most
effective results.
1.8. Overuse of Discipline Referrals
Principals and students quickly lose respect for teachers who
send students to the office for every little thing. Classroom
management is a crucial part of a teacher’s job. When a teacher
sends multiple students every day to the office, it says that they
are inadequate at handling that part of the job. It tells the
principal that the teacher is dealing with discipline issues more
than they are teaching. It tells the students that the teacher does
not demand the respect needed to have control over the
classroom. Sending a student to the office should be a last resort
only used after every other option has been tried.
1.9. Self Isolation
Teachers should be collaborative by nature. They should
embrace what other teachers have to offer, exchanging ideas and
best practices, seeking advice, and offering encouragement.
They should not be isolated or withdrawn. They should be open
and willing to share what they are excellent at doing. They
should understand that this exchange of best practices affects a
larger number of students because twenty teachers doing
something extraordinary is better than one teacher doing
something extraordinary is. Self-isolation, no matter the reason,
leads to mistrust. Mistrust can destroy the cohesion that a faculty
needs to maximize learning potential successfully.
1.10. Yelling At Students
Continuous yelling undermines a teacher’s authority, causes
some students to withdraw, and rarely produces the results the
teacher is seeking. Too many teachers believe that yelling or
berating their students is an effective form of student discipline.
In reality, it demonstrates ignorance. It is a form of bullying and
has been proven to be ineffective in long-term discipline, though
it may yield short-term results encouraging a teacher to continue
the practice rather than finding a better solution. There is a
difference between occasionally raising your voice and
continuous yelling. Most teachers have an established “teacher
voice” that they use when they need to get the attention of an
individual student or the class.
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2. 24 Ways Teachers Can Build a Trusting
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By Derrick Meador
Teaching Expert
Updated July 26, 2016. The relationship between a teacher and principal can be polarizing at times. A principal by nature has to be different things at different times for different situations. They can be supportive, demanding, encouraging, reprimanding, elusive, omnipresent, and a wide array of other things dependent on what a teacher needs to maximize their potential. Teachers must understand that the principal will fill whatever role they need to help a teacher grow and improve.
A teacher must also recognize the value in building a trusting
relationship with their principal. Trust is a two-way street that is
earned over time through merit and based on actions. Teachers
must make a concerted effort to earn their principal’s trust. After
all, there is only one of them, but a building full of teachers
vying for the same. There is not a singular action that will lead
to developing a trusting relationship, but rather multiple actions
over an extended period to earn that trust.
2.1. Common Dreams and What They Supposedly Mean
The following are twenty-five suggestions that teachers can
utilize to build a trusting relationship with their principal.
1. Assume a Leadership Role
Principals trust teachers who are leaders instead of followers.
Leadership can mean taking initiative to fill an area of need. It
can mean serving as a mentor for a teacher who has a weakness
in an area that is your strength. It could mean writing and
overseeing grants for school improvement.
2. Be Dependable
Principals trust teachers who are highly dependable to
their work. They expect their teachers to follow all
reporting and departure procedures. When they are going
to be gone, it is important to give notification as early as
possible. Teachers who arrive early, stay late, and rarely
miss are very valuable.
3. Be Organized
Principals trust teachers to be organized. A lack of organization leads to chaos. A teacher’s room should be clutter free with good spacing. Organization allows a teacher to accomplish more on a day-to-day basis and minimize disruptions in the classroom.
4. Be Prepared Every Single Day
Principals trust teachers who are highly prepared. They want
teachers who work hard, have their materials ready before the
start of each class and have gone over the lesson themselves
before class starts. A lack of preparation will diminish the
overall quality of the lesson and will hinder student learning.
5. Be Professional
Principals trust teachers who exhibit characteristics of
professionalism at all times. Professionalism includes
appropriate dress, how they carry themselves inside and outside
the classroom, the way that they address students, teachers, and
parents, etc. Professionalism is having the ability to handle
yourself in a manner that reflects positively on the school you
represent.
6. Demonstrate a Desire to Improve
Principals trust teachers who are never stale. They want teachers
who seek out professional development opportunities to better
themselves. They want teachers that are constantly looking for
ways to do things better. A good teacher is continuously
evaluating, tweaking, and changing what they are doing in their
classroom.
7. Demonstrate a Mastery of Content
Principals trust teachers who understand every nuance of the
content, grade level, and curricula that they teach. Teachers
should be experts on the standards related to what they teach.
They should understand the latest research on instructional
strategies and best practices and should utilize them to their
classroom.
8. Demonstrate a Propensity to Handle Adversity
Principals trust teachers who are flexible and able to deal
effectively with unique situations that present themselves.
Teachers cannot be rigid in their approach. They must adapt to
the strengths and weaknesses of their students. They must be
adept problem solvers who can remain calm making the best of
strenuous situations.
9. Demonstrate Consistent Student Growth
Principals trust teachers whose students consistently show
growth on assessments. Teachers must be able to move students
from one academic level to another. In most cases, a student
should not advance a grade level without demonstrating
considerable growth and improvement from which they began
the year.
10. Don’t Be Demanding
Principals trust teachers who understand that their time is
valuable. Teachers must realize that the principal is responsible
for every teacher and student in the building. A good principal
will not ignore a request for help and will get to it in time.
Teachers must be patient and understanding with their
principals.
11. Go Above and Beyond
Principals trust teachers who make themselves available to help
out in any area of need. Many teachers volunteer their own time
to tutor struggling students. They volunteer to help other
teachers with projects. They help in the concession stand at
athletic events. Every school has multiple areas of need in which
teachers are needed to help out.
12. Have a Positive Attitude
Principals trust teachers who love their job and are
excited about coming to work each day. Teachers must
maintain a positive attitude. There are definite rough days
and sometimes it is difficult to keep a positive approach.
Continuous negativity will impact the job that you are
doing which ultimately has a negative impact on the
students you teach.
13. Minimize the Number of Students Sent to the Office
Principals trust teachers who can handle classroom management.
The principal should be utilized as a last resort for minor
classroom issues. Continuously sending students to the office for
minor issues undermines a teacher’s authority by telling students
that you are incapable of handling your class.
14. Open up Your Classroom
Principals trust teachers who do not mind when they visit the
classroom. Teachers should invite principals, parents, and any
other stakeholder to visit their classrooms at any time. A teacher
who is unwilling to open their classroom seems like they are
hiding something that can lead to distrust.
15. Own Up to Mistakes
Principals trust teachers who proactively report a mistake.
Everyone makes mistakes including teachers. It looks much
better when you own up to the mistake instead of waiting to be
caught or reported. For example, if you accidentally let a curse
word slip in class, let your principal know immediately.
16. Put Your Students First
Principals trust teachers who put their students first. This should
be a given, but there are a few teachers who forget why they
chose to be a teacher as their career progresses. Students should
always be a teacher’s first priority. Every classroom decision
should be made by asking what the best option for the students
is.
17. Seek Out Advice
Principals trust teachers who ask questions and solicit advice
from their principal, as well as other teachers. No teacher should
attempt to tackle a problem alone. Educators should be
encouraged to learn from each other. Experience is the greatest
teacher, but soliciting simple advice can go a long ways in
dealing with a difficult issue.
18. Spend Extra Time Working in Your Classroom
Principals trust teachers who demonstrate a willingness to spend
extra time working in their classroom. Contrary to popular
belief, teaching is not an 8-3 job. Effective teachers arrive early
and stay late several days a week. They also spend time
throughout the summer preparing for the upcoming year.
19. Take Suggestions and Apply Them to Your Classroom
Principals trust teachers who listen to advice and suggestions
and then make changes accordingly. Teachers must accept
suggestions from their principal and not let it fall on deaf ears.
Refusing to take suggestions from your principal can quickly
lead to finding a new job.
20. Utilize District Technology and Resources
Principals trust teachers who use the technology and resources
that district has spent money to purchase. When teachers to not
utilize these resources, it becomes a waste of money. Purchasing
decisions are not taken lightly and are made to enhance the
classroom. Teachers must figure out a way to implement
resources that are made available to them.
21. Value Your Principal’s Time
Principals trust teachers who value their time and
understand the enormity of the job. When a teacher
complains about everything or is extremely needy, it
becomes a problem. Principals want teachers to be
independent decision makers capable of dealing with
minor issues on their own.
22. When Given a Task, Understand That Quality and Timeliness Matters
Principals trust teachers who complete projects or tasks quickly
and efficiently. Occasionally, a principal will ask a teacher for
help on a project. Principals rely on those that they trust to help
them get certain things done.
23. Work Well With Other Teachers
Principals trust teachers who collaborate effectively with other
teachers. Nothing disrupts a school faster than a split amongst
the faculty. Collaboration is a weapon for teacher improvement.
Teachers must embrace this to improve and help others improve
for the benefit of every student in the school.
24. Work Well With Parents
Principals trust teachers who work well with parents. All
teachers must be able to communicate effectively with the
parents of their students. Teachers must build relationships with
parents so that when an issue arises, the parents will support the
teacher in correcting the problem.
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By Derrick Meador
Teaching Expert
Updated June 06, 2016. All teachers are not created equal. Some are frankly better than others. It is a privilege and special opportunity when we have a great one. Great teachers go above
and beyond to ensure that each child is successful. Many of us have had that one teacher that inspired us more than any other. Great teachers are able to bring the best out of every student. They are often energetic, fun, and seemingly always at the top of their game. Their students look forward to coming to their class each day. When students are promoted to the next grade, they are sad that they are leaving but armed with the skills necessary to be successful.
Great teachers are rare. Many teachers are capable, but there are
a select few who are willing to spend the time necessary to hone
their skills enough to become great. They are innovators,
communicators, and educators. They are compassionate,
endearing, charming, and funny. They are creative, smart, and
ambitious. They are passionate, personable, and proactive.
They are dedicated, continuous learners who are gifted in their
craft. They are in a sense the total teaching package. So what
makes someone a great teacher? There is not a single answer.
Instead, there are several exceptional things that great teachers
do. Many teachers do a few of these things, but the great
teachers consistently do them all.
A great teacher is prepared. Preparation takes a lot of time.
Great teachers spend a lot of time outside of the school day
preparing for each day. This often includes weekends. They also
spend countless hours during the summer working to improve
their craft. They prepare detailed lessons, activities, and centers
each designed to maximize student-learning opportunities. They
create detailed lesson plans and often plan for more in a day than
they typically can complete.
A great teacher is organized. Being organized leads to
efficiency. This allows great teachers minimal distractions and
maximizes instructional time. Increasing instructional time will
lead to an increase in academic success for students.
Organization is about creating an efficient system to find
resources and other materials quickly which a teacher needs.
There are many different organizational styles. A great teacher
finds the system that works for them and makes it better.
A great teacher is a continuous learner. They continuously
read and apply the newest research in their classroom. They are
never satisfied whether they have taught for one year or twenty.
They seek out professional development opportunities, research
ideas online and subscribe to multiple teaching related
newsletters. Great teachers are not afraid to ask other teachers
what they are doing in their classrooms. They often take these
ideas and experiment with them in their classroom.
A great teacher adapts. They recognize that each school day
and each school year is different. What works for one student or
one class may not work for the next. They continuously change
things up to take advantage of individual strengths and
weaknesses within a classroom. Great teachers are not afraid to
scrap entire lessons and start back over with a new approach.
They recognize when something is working and stick to it.
When an approach is ineffective, they make the necessary
changes.
A great teacher evolves. They are constantly changing and
never become stale. As trends change, they change with them.
They grow each year they teach always improving across
multiple areas. They are not the same teacher from year to year.
Great teachers learn from their mistakes. They look to improve
upon what has been successful and find something new to
replace what has been not worked. They are not afraid to learn
new strategies, technologies, or implement new curricula.
A great teacher is proactive. Being proactive can stave off a lot
of potential problems including academic, discipline, or any
other issue. It can prevent a small concern from turning into an
enormous problem. Great teachers recognize potential problems
immediately and work to fix them quickly. They understand that
the time put into correcting a small problem is considerably less
than it would be if it ballooned into something bigger. Once it
becomes a large issue, it will almost always take away from
valuable class time.
A great teacher communicates. Communication is a critical
component of a successful teacher. They must be adept at
communicating with several subgroups including students,
parents, administrators, support personnel, and other teachers.
Each of these subgroups must be communicated with
differently, and great teachers are terrific at communicating with
everyone. They are able to communicate so that every person
understands the message they are trying to convey. Great
teachers keep people informed. They explain concepts well and
make people feel comfortable around them.
A great teacher networks. Networking has become a critical
component of being a great teacher. It has also become easier.
Social networks such as Google+, Twitter, Facebook, and
Pinterest allow teachers from all over the world to share ideas
and provide best practices quickly. They also allow teachers to
seek input and advice from other teachers. Networking provides
a natural support system with those who share a similar passion.
It provides great teachers with another means of learning and
honing their craft.
A great teacher inspires. They are able to pull the best out of
every student they teach. They inspire them to become better
students, to maximize their time in the classroom, and to look
towards the future. A great teacher takes an interest a student has
and helps turn it into a passion making educational connections
that will potentially last a lifetime. They understand that each
student is different, and they embrace those differences. They
teach their students that it is those differences that often make
them exceptional.
A great teacher is compassionate. They hurt when their
students hurt and rejoice when their students rejoice. They
understand that life happens and that the kids they teach do not
control their home lives. Great teachers believe in second
chances, but use mistakes to teach life lessons. They offer
advice, counseling, and mentoring when necessary. Great
teachers understand that school is sometimes the safest place a
kid can be.
A great teacher is respected. Respect is earned over time. It
does not come easy. Respected teachers are able to maximize
learning because they do not typically have classroom
management issues. When they have an issue, they are dealt
with quickly and in a respectable manner. They do not
embarrass or berate the student. Great teachers understand you
have to give respect before you earn respect. They are
considerable and thoughtful to everyone but understand that
there are occasions where they must stand their ground.
A great teacher makes learning fun. They are unpredictable.
They jump into character when reading a story, teach lessons
with enthusiasm, take advantage of teachable moments, and
provide dynamic, hands-on activities that students will
remember. They tell stories to make real life connections. Great
teachers incorporate student interests into their lessons. They are
not afraid to do crazy things that motivate their students to learn.
A great teacher goes above and beyond. They volunteer their
own time to tutor a struggling student after school or on
weekends. They help out in other areas around school when they
are needed. A great teacher is the first to help a family of a
student in need in any way they can. They advocate for the
students when necessary. They look out for each student’s best
interest. They do what it takes to ensure that each student is safe,
healthy, clothed, and fed.
A great teacher loves what they do. They are passionate about
their job. They enjoy getting up each morning and going to their
classroom. They are excited about the opportunities they have.
They like the challenges that each day presents. Great teachers
always have a smile on their face. They rarely let their students
know when something is bothering them because they worry it
will affect them negatively. They are natural educators because
they were born to be a teacher.
A great teacher educates. They not only teach students the
required curriculum, but they also teach them life skills. They
are in a constant state of teaching, taking advantage of
impromptu opportunities that may captivate and inspire a
particular student. They do not rely on a mainstream or boxed in
approach to educate. They are able to take a variety of styles and
mold them into their own unique style to meet the needs of the
students that they have at any given time.
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By Derrick Meador
Teaching should be driven by a passion to provide help for
students no matter what that calls for. Teachers have a natural
impact on a young person’s life. It is our duty to make the most
of our time with each student allowing us to maximize the
impact we have on their life. Helping students is what teaching
is all about. When a person decides they want to become a
teacher, this should be the number one reason.
Every student comes with their own unique circumstances and
experiences. Each grade level is different. Each school is
different. A student in first grade will not have the same needs
as a student in ninth grade, but two students in ninth grade will
not likely have the same exact needs either. A major part of a
teacher’s job is to recognize individual student needs and to
cater to those needs when appropriate.
There will be students that require a lot more attention than
others for various reasons. These are the students that we can
often have the most impact on because we have invested so
much into them.
However, it is essential that we have some sort of positive
impact on every student in our classes. There are several
different ways to influence a student and what helps one may
not necessarily help another.
4.1. Provide Students with a Solid Education
The backbone of education is to teach our students the
fundamental academic skills necessary to succeed in life. This
often begins in Prekindergarten, and each teacher along the way
provides students with knowledge and concepts intended to
build upon and extend previously learned concepts. This sounds
simple, but teaching is not an exact science. Every student and
every class is different.
Effective teachers must continuously adapt to the strengths of
each student and class while continuously looking to improve
how they teach their curriculum. Every minute a teacher has
with a student must count as their overall time they have with
any one student is relatively short when you compare it to that
child’s entire educational path. The best teachers have a focused
plan for preparing their students, adapt when necessary, and take
advantage of opportunities to extend learning.
4.2. Push Students to Be Successful
Every teacher should have high expectations for their students.
The truly outstanding teachers are able to shift the burden of
those expectations to the students themselves. There are many
students who lack the drive and/or the confidence necessary to
be successful. Teachers must be innovative motivators capable
of getting even the most reluctant learners to be successful.
Teachers should make goal setting a component of their
instruction. Encourage ambitious students to set higher goals
and encourage students that lack confidence to set smaller
obtainable goals that will build a foundation for success.
4.3. Provide Students with Character Education
The principles attached to character training used to be taught
exclusively at home, but over recent years, we have seen a moral
decline in the home leading to increased violence and an overall
lack of respect at school. This shift has led many schools and
teachers to include character education within their curriculum.
This education is crucial to the development of our young
people. Too often it is the only training they will receive in this
area. Character does matter and the lack of having character has
a negative effect on a student’s education. Teachers should lead
this cause by example adhering to the same character principles
that they work to instill in their students.
4.4. Provide Students with Structure
Most young people will respond positively to structure. There
are exceptions, but most kids want their teachers to be structured
with a given set of rules and expectations. Being structured
means that the teacher is organized, seldom gives down time,
and generally expects every student to adhere to a given set of
expectations. Many young people today have remarkably little
structure at home. They are allowed to do what they want when
they want. An unstructured classroom is a chaotic classroom and
learning is minimal. Providing students with structure is
essential to maximize learning, makes them feel safe, and
generally makes a teacher’s job easier.
4.5. Hold Students Accountable
Students aren’t perfect. They are going to make mistakes. Every
student must be held accountable for their actions when they do
make a mistake. Failing to discipline a student who has made a
mistake will not teach them anything and the chances of the
student making the same choice again will increase. There is a
plethora of actions that warrant a classroom discipline decision.
Holding students accountable isn’t always easy. However, it is
important to realize that if you do not hold them accountable
you are doing the student themselves, the other students in the
class, and yourself a considerable disservice.
4.6. Be There in Times of Crisis
Unfortunately, life isn’t always kind. If you teach for any length
of time at all, you will have students going through personal
adversity. As a teacher, the best thing that you can do is to let
them know that you are there for them and their family. It is
equally valuable to be sensitive to the situation by providing
flexibility with their work, offering to set up counseling
services, or generally talking to your students about the situation
so that they can be sympathetic when the student returns. If the
student is gone for an extended period of time, take the time to
check on them either by phone or by visiting them directly.
4.7. Go Above and Beyond
A teacher’s job does not end when school is dismissed. There
are a lot of things that teachers can do to benefit their students
that does not necessarily fall under the scope of their classroom
duties. Many teachers stay after school on their own time
offering struggling students some extra tutoring. Teachers also
know which students families struggle financially and often find
ways to provide them with food and clothes. Many teachers
show up to support their student’s athletic events even if they
are not directly tied to the school. All of these things are simple,
but they are meaningful to the students and their families.
Related
• Why a Structured Classroom is a Successful Classroom
• 15 Exceptional Things Great Teachers Do Well
• 20 Critical Life Lessons We Learn from Teachers at School
• 10 Mistakes that Teachers Should Avoid
By Derrick Meador
Teachers play a critical role in the development of young people
around the world. Teachers by and far are undervalued and
under-appreciated, but few people would argue that they are not
necessary. The role of the teacher is multifaceted and seemingly
ever expanding. Most non-teachers do not fully grasp or
appreciate all of the roles that teachers take on. Teaching is a
more complex profession than most people realize. It is very
difficult to fill every role and to do everyone well. However,
effective teachers embrace each of these roles and work
continuously to improve the areas in which they are weakest.
4.8. Teacher as Classroom Manager
A teacher must be an effective classroom manager. This area
includes organization, preparation, and student discipline. True
classroom management is proactive not reactive meaning that
the teacher has the foresight to head a problem off before it
becomes something bigger. Organization and preparation lay the
foundation for instructional effectiveness.
The best teachers are prepared for both the expected and the
unexpected as life in the classroom is rarely predictable. As
disciplinarians, teachers lay the foundation for success on day
one. Good teachers drill procedures and expectations early and
often. They hold their students accountable and handle issues
quickly and effectively.
4.9. Teacher as Collaborator
Teachers collaborate on a daily basis. Collaboration differs from
communication. Collaboration is two or more people working
together to solve a problem or improve a targeted area.
Communication is simply exchanging information or concerns
with another person. Teachers often collaborate with their peers
and other educational professionals. They exchange best
practices, share ideas, and offer suggestions for improvement.
Continuous collaboration leads to continuous growth and
improvement. Teachers must also be willing to collaborate with
parents. A parent-teacher relationship must be a partnership,
where both sides are willing listeners who work together to
resolve an issue.
4.10. Teacher as Communicator
Teachers must continuously communicate with stakeholders
including their students, parents, other teachers, and
administrators. Nothing can undermine a teacher’s best efforts
quicker than a lack of communication. A lack of communication
can lead to mistrust, misconceptions, and misunderstanding.
Effective communication keeps stakeholders informed and
aware of what is going on in the classroom. It is also important
for communication to be a two-way street where stakeholders
are encouraged and invited to express concerns or ask questions.
There are many avenues by which to communicate. These
include face-to-face, social media, email, newsletter, personal
note, phone call, etc.
4.11. Teacher as Content Expert
Teachers must become experts on the grade level and content
which they teach. This goes beyond a rudimentary
understanding. A teacher must be able to convince their students
effectively that they genuinely know what they are talking
about, or their students will not buy in. Teachers become experts
through studying and preparation. It happens when teachers
thoroughly know their standards, read the textbook in advance,
study related information on the topic, and answer the problems
and questions themselves. It also happens by attending
professional development related to your content area.
4.12. Teacher as Facilitator
A teacher is the facilitator of learning meaning that they help guide their students to a greater understanding of the topic. They do so through many different methods and by utilizing various instructional strategies. One thing that makes teaching such an interesting and diverse field is that there is more than one way to do this job effectively. What works well for one teacher, may not necessarily be effective for another. What works well for one group of students, may not necessarily work for another. Teachers must be flexible in their approach and willing to adjust to those with which they are working.
4.13. Teacher as Mentor
Teachers spend a considerable amount of time working with
their students. Because of this, it is natural for relationships and
bonds to form with certain students. Every student is different.
Some students simply require more attention than others. Those
are the students with which we typically spend more time.
Eventually, the trust is formed and sometimes the teacher can
step into the role of mentor. Many students who have never been
successful academically, finally attained success because a
teacher saw something in them and took the time to take on a
mentoring role that led to that breakthrough.
4.14. Teacher as Protector
A teacher’s greatest role is to ensure the safety and security of
every student. This often includes their time during and away
from school. At school, teachers must ensure that they provide
their students with a safe learning environment. They must
monitor students at all times throughout the school day and be
prepared to remove them from a threatening situation. They
must also become adept at recognizing signs of abuse or neglect.
When necessary they must advocate for a student’s health and/or
safety. Teachers must go above and beyond when they recognize
that a student’s basic needs are not being met.
4.15. Teacher as Researcher
Education is continuously changing and evolving. Teachers
must continuously research best practices and stay up-to-date on
the latest educational research. Teachers often read books and
other literature related to literature. There are social media
communities readily available for teachers to interact with on
virtually any education related topic. The best teachers are those
who refuse to get stuck in their ways; those who are
continuously tweaking what they do in an attempt to make it
better. These teachers are keenly aware of their individual
weaknesses. They seek out professional development and advice
to improve that area. They are never content, always striving to
be better.
4.16. Teacher as Role Model
Teachers by nature should embrace being a role model. Most of
us got into the profession because we want to have an impact on
young people. As such, teachers must maintain professionalism
at all times. Our students are always watching us. Teachers must
set a positive example for their students. When we do make a
mistake, we admit it, apologize for it, and promise not to let it
happen again. Teachers must understand that they are even
being watched in public. Teachers have always been held to a
higher standard. We must be careful with what we post on social
media, where we go, and what we do because someone is
always watching.
4.17. Teacher as Scape Goat
One of the most frustrating roles that teachers play is that of the
scapegoat. This has been ever increasing over the last decade.
Fewer parents are taking on the responsibility of primary
educator leaving teachers with even more to do. Teachers often
do the best with what they have, but when a student fails the
teacher shoulders most of the blame. The truth is that when a
student fails, it is almost always a societal problem and not a
teacher problem. However, it is easier to place blame on the
teacher and to hold them accountable than it is to those who are
truly responsible.
Related
• 24 Ways Teachers Can Earn Their Principal's Trust
10 Useful Skills Modern Teachers Need
Teaching our youth can be a fulfilling, yet challenging career choice. You will
need a variety of skills, coupled with knowledge and experience in order to be
effective at the job. In order to be a modern, 21st century teacher there are a few
useful skills that you will need to have. I am not just talking about patience, even
though that is the number one skill on my list. I am talking about being able to
adapt to new technology and how to manage your online reputation in the midst of
this social media era. Here we will take a look at the top 10 skills modern teachers
need to have.
Photo Courtesy of Chris Schmidt/Getty Images
1. Patience
The single most important skill every teacher must have is patience. Patience will take you very far in a classroom where students are on a sugar high from their Halloween party. It will also help you get through each and every repetitive day that you are in the classroom.
Photo Jamie Grill/Getty Images
2. Understanding of New Technology
We are in the digital age. In the past five years alone we have seen huge
advancements in educational technology and we will continue to see it grow at a
rapid pace. Not only is it essential that you keep up with the latest in technology,
but you must also know which digital tool(s) is right for your students, and your
classroom.
Photo Courtesy of Courtney Keating/Getty Images
3. Creative Imagination
The most effective tool a teacher can use is their imagination. With the Common
Core State Standards (CCSS) being implemented in classrooms all over the United
States, many teachers are finding that they need to use their imagination more than
ever. Teachers need to be creative and think of unique ways to keep their students
engaged in learning.
Photo Courtesy of Blend Images/Getty Images
4. Team Player
Part of being a teacher is being able to work together as part of a team. Educators
call this "team teaching." When you work together as a team it provides students
with a better chance to learn and have fun.
Photo Courtesy of Blend Images/Getty Images
5. Manage Online Reputation
In this modern age, most, if not every teacher is online. This means that you have
an "online reputation." Modern teachers need to know how to manage their online
reputation and which social networks are right for them to be on. LinkedIn is an
essential in connecting to colleagues, but Snap chat or any other social networking
site where students are, is probably not a good idea.
Photo Courtesy of Image Source/Getty Images
6. Communication
Be able to communicate with not only your students but parents, and staff is an
essential skill for every teacher to have. Almost all of your day is spent
communicating with students and staff so you better be able to talk clear and
concise. If not, then you should take a refresher course and brush up on your
communication skills.
Photo Courtesy of Caravan Images/Getty Images
7. Know How to Find Engaging Resources
In these modern times it's imperative to be able to find creative and engaging
resources that will help you keep students on their toes. This means searching for
new apps to use, browsing the web for inspiration, and subscribing to RSS Readers
who know the latest in new educational technology.
Photo Courtesy of Tom Merton/Getty Images
8. Continuous Learning
Effective teachers thrive in professional development courses. They know that you
can never learn too much, and they attend seminars, workshops, and anything that
will make them a better teacher.
9. Know When to Slow Down
Modern teachers know when it's time to kick their heels up, unplug from social
media, and relax. They also understand that the teacher burnout rate is at a
maximum high right now, so it's even more critical for them to take the time to
slow down and take a moment for themselves.
Photo Courtesy of Martin Barraud/Getty Images
10. Adaptability
Being able to adapt is a skill every teacher must have, whether you’re a modern
teacher or not. Teachers need to be able to adapt to the way their students learn, the
behavior their classroom exhibits, their lesson plans, and so on. It is a trait, that
along with patience is a must.
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5. Agreed upon National professional code of ethics of teachers
This can be indicated under six categories
5.1. Teacher and his/her profession. a) Understand that the profession requires rigorous and
specific functions.
b) Believes that education be related to social problems
and instrument for problem solving.
c) Be genuine and competent to teach.
d) Love his or her profession.
e) Know that the teacher guides and controls
educational activities and life-long learners.
f) Acquire knowledge through scientific methods and
understand that self deception is anti development.
g) Know that knowledge is developed through
discussion criticism and self criticism.
h) Develop his/her professional competency and
scientific thoughts through group or individual
research, investigation, educational meetings and
excursions.
i) Be model in his/her moral and professional
activities.
j) Refrain from all things that disturb teaching
professions.
k) Perform professional duties and responsibilities
properly (promptly) and on time.
l) Take other responsibilities to accomplish
professional missions.
m) Doesn’t look for benefits other than indicated
in the rules and regularities.
n) Retain secrets pertinent to the profession.
o) Respect children’s mother tongue and encourage it
as a medium of instruction.
5.2. The teacher and the students. a) He/she should be courageous (wise and create
healthy relation ) to help ,guide ,and control
students.
b) Understand that he/she is a model for the
students.
5.3. The teacher and his/her colleagues. p) Create healthful and cooperative inurnment with
teachers and administrative workers.
q) Understand that respecting colleagues is
professional ethics.
r) Forward opinions and suggestions that improve
when necessary.
s) Create environment to learn from one another on the
basis of professional unity.
5.4. Teacher and students’ parents. a) Respect parents’ responsibility for their children.
b) Understand that the relationship with parents is
based on their children’s educational and social
development.
c) Create relationship that helps parents to know
about their children’s education
d) Advise students to strengthen their trust or
thinness of their parents.
5.5. The teacher and society t) Provides good resections and assumptions for the
society as society is the largest school.
u) Strengthens appropriate relations to learn from and
teach the society.
v) Fore front participant for the improvement and
dissemination of quality education in the society.
w) Participates in useful activities in the society.
x) Respects equality of nations and nationalities,
believes in equalities of languages and their belief
instruments for development.
y) Loyal to his/her society and country.
5.6. The teacher and his/her professional association A, Accomplishes all the necessary supports for the
contribution the association renders for individual
members.
B, Accomplishes his or her rights and obligations on
the basis of rules of the organization.
C, Ready to comply with functions of the association’s
regularities.
D, Fulfils his/her responsibilities to make the
association strong enough in material and human
resource to respect members rights, obligations, social
security and academic freedom.
E. Strengthen his/her cooperation with the
association based on professional unity.
F, Make all the efforts to make the association in
struggling for quality education through research.
G, Accomplish his/her responsibilities in order to make
the association’s participation high to create a
generation that has good ethical behaviour.
H, Make the necessary effort to create conducive
teaching learning environment in the school through
the association.
5.6.1.Prospective development
a/ Be aware that respect and trust comes from his/her effort to
perform his/her
professional duties and competency.
b/ Keep the academic freedom of students.
c/ Respects the rights of the students, love and respect them and
renders equal service on the basis of equality.
d/ Provides pertinent knowledge and skill.
e/ Help the learners to develop attitude of equality, democracy and
feeling for justice, love for the nation and people.
f/ Show the effort to avoid problems that may occur on girl students
as a result of gender differences and biases.
g/ Understands that his/her relation with his/her students is only on
the basis of teaching-learning process and on the well-being of the
students in particular and the society in general.
h/ Keep what she/he knows about students a secret unless and
otherwise requested by legal body and the guardian or enforced by.