Whether it be a class of preschoolers or undergraduates, teaching is a unique challenge. Not only do you have to figure out how to capture the students’ attention, but you also have to keep it for a long duration. What works for some may not work for others. It’s a balancing act to mold and educate the future workforce. Read on to know how you can cultivate an environment conducive to learning:
Comfort
Make sure that you have comfortable school chairs and desks in your classrooms in Australia. It’s hard for students to pay attention to you or your presentation if they’re playing with the furniture instead. Not only is it important for learning, but it’s important to attract new students as well. On traits to look for in a kindergarten, the Department of Education and Training Victoria says that it should have safe and comfortable rooms.
Besides the physical aspect, there’s another way to make students feel comfortable. Australia boasts of a diverse population. More than a quarter of its 22 million citizens were born overseas. If you’re teaching younger children, it’s particularly important to make them feel included. A study by the University of Delaware recommends teaching about various cultures. It will highlight the similarities and illuminate pupils about the differences among cultures.
Adaptability
La Trobe University’s Department of Education head Joanna Barbousas says that the most important skill for teachers is the ability to adapt. She explains that instructors must pass on information to students so that it becomes knowledge. You can approach this by using various examples. One is to use examples that would appeal to your students. If you teach primary school students, incorporate references about shows on ABC ME.
For high school pupils, you can explain how they can use the lessons for practical purposes. For example, you can explain that learning statistics is important for those who want to start a business or start a career in STEM. You have to find common ground with your students so that they can learn more effectively.
Demand
A study from the UK examined the effectiveness of different teaching practices. It found that the ideal classroom environment demanded effort from the students while building their self-esteem. From the start, establish rules and standards so that they’re always attentive. Give out surprise tests and have games once in a while for a break from the routine school day. Award prizes such as an exemption or additional points for an exam. Competitive games and worthy prizes will give pupils an incentive to study ahead and exert effort.
It’s also important to give effective praise. If you tend to commend often, it might send the students a message that you have low standards. Give particular attention to the amount of effort they do rather than their ability. If you praise based on ability, it might encourage struggling students to give up rather than try harder.
Teaching may be a challenging job, but it’s also one of the world’s most important professions. When done effectively, you can change a student’s life for the better. There’s no job like it.
