Teaching goes beyond instruction and into interpretation, exploration, evaluation, and application. Focusing on expression and communication supported by my instruction about key ideas and skills helps prepare students to adapt to the ever-changing demands of the job market and to an increasingly complex society. Connecting to students on a personal level creates community and helps them contextualize the learning into their own lives to make it relevant to them and the world around them. Restorative and supportive proactive action, rather than punitive behavior modification, in response to clear expectations of student-generated norms creates acceptance and a safe learning space that encourages academic risk taking.
If the ultimate goal of teaching is learner autonomy, students must feel they have an active role in their learning through choice and creativity. Exploring literature can spark important conversations surrounding current topics and trends. In an increasingly multicultural society, it is imperative to teach inclusivity by acknowledging students’ identities and assigning authentic, culturally relevant material. Exposure to various interpretations teaches acceptance, empathy, and compassion. I understand the awesome potential of young minds and will continually work to develop my students’ abilities and express my belief in their individual strengths.
If the ultimate goal of teaching is learner autonomy, students must feel they have an active role in their learning through choice and creativity. Exploring literature can spark important conversations surrounding current topics and trends. In an increasingly multicultural society, it is imperative to teach inclusivity by acknowledging students’ identities and assigning authentic, culturally relevant material. Exposure to various interpretations teaches acceptance, empathy, and compassion. I understand the awesome potential of young minds and will continually work to develop my students’ abilities and express my belief in their individual strengths.