Is teaching an art or a science? I think this centers around the idea - are there natural teachers? Can you learn to teach? How does one become an effective teacher?
I think of teaching as more of an art. It's a form of individual expression that can be approached and executed in so many different ways. At the same time, I feel there are some scientific elements as well - rubrics, formulas, grading systems, and the like. Also, I think teaching can be "gotten down to a science" in some instances such as when a teacher teaches the same class for many years and really has found a method that works for that particular class in terms of execution and student success.
I do think some people have more of a knack for teaching than others and seem more natural at it. I think people who are considered "natural teachers" are those who have strong interpersonal, empathetic, and listening skills. Having these skills allows them to communicate effectively and to also see students' perspectives about the subject matter at hand. I do think people can learn to teach, but I think it comes more easily to those that have these skills.
Like most professions, becoming an effective teacher takes practice. I also think the willingness to try new ideas and approaches to teaching helps, along with being flexible. Effective teachers seem to be those that can strike the balance between the needs of the class and individuals in the class. There should be individual attention when needed, but not at the expense of the entire class.
I like your idea of striking a balance between the needs of the class and individuals in the class. I can see how it is difficult to teach the material and yet make sure everyone is getting it. Some students need a little more time to get it and good teachers are able to strike that balance.
ReplyDeleteLike Jessica, I was struck by this remark:
ReplyDelete"Effective teachers seem to be those that can strike the balance between the needs of the class and individuals in the class."
So true and so very challenging! I feel for K-12 teachers because often the discipline issues of a few students take over the needs of the whole class. That is one huge advantage to teaching college - but even still, the balance between the excelling students, the struggling students, and those in the middle is tricky. Even still I struggle to figure out a way to have class discussions not be taken over by my "smart" (or at lead loud) students; overall I think I still fail at this.
So I would throw in group diplomacy as an essential teacher skill!
Amber, at least you try and I'm sure that counts a lot. There are some teachers who seem so burned out they don't even care. (Thinking about my own high school experience.) Anyhow, I hear the term "differentiated teaching" being thrown around a lot these days in the K-5 arena when I tour elementary schools for my kids. I'm all for inclusion and it sounds like a great idea n paper. At this point, I just don't know what the exact strategies are or how successful it is. Like other educational programs, I suppose only time will tell if this is the best strategy in order for students to reach their highest personal potential.
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