What Do Best Teachers Do?
...the most important part of all lectures and class discussions. Rather than attending class to learn facts, critical thinking and reasoning abilities should be the major objectives. Utilizing a constructivist philosophy, it is our belief that learners construct their own meaning and knowledge and it is the educator's task to offer proactive coursework designed to encourage active participation and discussion in class, while at the same time acknowledging and respecting student differences. The role of the educator is not being the source of all truth, but as a guide creates a sense that everyone works together. Students can learn from one another, gaining confidence as they share.
Creating a good teaching environment involves creating an atmosphere of trust allowing students to feel comfortable enough to share in discussions. Every class discussion calls for involvement and is facilitated through asking questions, but should not be dominated by the instructor. Construction of knowledge involves two levels, the social level as well as the individual level so the fostering of a community of learners is an important aspect to teaching. Promoting this type of learning would include creating some sort of hands-on project around which they can base their understanding. More important than testing well on the material is the point that all students "get it." Success is measured by the ability of students to take elements of what was learned in the classroom and find application outside of the classroom.
Assumptions on How Humans Learn
Society and Self
Society is something that is constantly changing. And with that, change is also brought to the world of education. Teaching styles, learning styles, and the characteristics of students and teachers are constantly shifting. It is very important for teachers to keep up with these societal changes in order to keep...
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