9/23/20; Week 02: Response to "Is the Great American Teacher Dead?
Although I do not live in the States, I can totally relate to the thoughts and facts shared by John J. Ivers in his article “Is the great American teacher dead?” Among the many ideas Dr. Ivers shared, he mentions a thought by Don Bain in his book, What the best college teachers do, that believes in the efficacy of metacognition, meaning by this, thinking about thinking. I believe that the best teachers are those that present their students with activities that questioned their reasoning, leading them to think outside of the box and being creative. To add more, I believe this can be best achieved if teachers present students with material that is authentic and updated. The selection of material that refers to events that happen nowadays will help students to see that education and learning relate to things they see in their everyday lives. Dr. Ivers citing Medina, suggests teachers use the ten-minute rule, to keep students engaged and in tune while in class.
Another suggestion given in the article is that for students to learn they need to feel love and welcome in the class. Best teachers are those that are attentive to all the students in the class. Best teachers identify students who have difficulty in the learning process and help them to be successful. These educators worry about students who are left alone in the classroom and do something to change that without exposing them. Best teachers avoid making fun of other students or teachers. They do not allow for students to bully nor in class neither in the school hallway if they see it. Research shows that if students feel loved and cared for in the classroom, they will be more motivated to learn.
Finally, another suggestion Dr. Ivers states that in his opinion it is fine for educators to show and have “a little intensity, a pinch of dynamism, a little inflection of the voice here and there”. Students are more engaged and enthusiastic about learning when they see that their instructor is also excited.
I also don't live in the States, but could see the similarities in my country as well. I really love the 10 minute rule and had to opportunity to view him in action this week by viewing one of his lectures and he definitely practice the 10 minute rule and it was great to see it in action, when he realize he is losing the attention of the students he used examples and stories to win them back. Loved that.
ResponderEliminarI agree with you if the students feel comfortable with you and loved you have won halve the battle already!
Great insight and post!
Truly, best teacher are those that are attentive to all the students in the class. It is the teacher and the students responsibility to be focused in class. It builds relationship and creates a good atmosphere in class. :)
ResponderEliminar