Interview Video: "Their Turn: What Makes a Great Teacher?"Reflection From interviewing the seniors at Central High School, I learned that teachers that believe and encourage their students are the most memorable for students. Leonel discussed how his dance teacher believed in him and gave him confidence to dance in public. While Jasmine had a piano teacher that did not let her quit even when the class got more difficult. Being encouraging will help me meet the needs of my students by making sure that they always someone who believes in them.
Even though teachers and students can be completely different from each other, it does not mean that they cannot have a positive relationship. According to Leonel, in order for a teacher to get along with students, it is important for the teacher to stay in the loop about popular culture, make the class fun, and not be too strict. Leonel strongly felt that if teachers are too strict, it can make even the most calm student rebel in class. It is much more important that a teacher incorporates fun activities whenever possible in class to keep students engaged. It all boils down to respect, according to Janelle, she believes that students only give respect when they get it from their teacher. Teachers need to treat students equally and never show favoritism or dislike for a particular student. If so, a teacher risks losing the respect of that student or other students in the class if they witness any favoritism by the teacher. Therefore, I will always treat my students equally and ensure that they also treat each other with respect. Mr. Stephens had very insightful information on how to build a classroom community and how keep students engaged. On community building, Mr.Stephens commented that students tease each other to show affection and that includes their teacher. Mr. Stephens mentioned that when his students tease him he used to get angry but over time realized that students do it out to show that they like him. He reciprocates the teasing to show them that he cares and loves them and that they are a community. |
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