After reading reading this article: http://hnyctt.me/ZDz, written about Professor Michael Wesch of KSU, I was inspired to write this blog post. Last week, I wrote about using technology, not for technology’s sake, but as a tool for learning. This week I want to extend the thought regarding the power of a teacher in the classroom, for they truly can set the stage for learning. An educator is the true model of learning in the classroom. If that model demonstrates a passion for the content that they teach, does this not bleed into students’ hearts? Have you ever seen someone so enthusiastic about a topic that they are overcome with joy and you can’t help but smile? Laughter, passion, life-long learning…these are all contagious! Have you ever been infected by another’s love of learning that you can’t help but stop and tune in? And isn’t this what we want for our students, to become infected with the passion for learning?
However, teachers that love their content and teach it well still have one other factor they must consider. The question becomes, has that teacher built rapport with his/her students? Do they have a shared trust? Is the environment safe, and does it allow for failures to be a learning opportunities? Do students feel comfortable stating their opinions and beliefs without judgment? Building relationships with students is the key to having a classroom with engaged learners. Children have the need to feel important in a teacher’s eyes. They need to know that they are cared about and that teachers have an interest in them as human beings.
So “fall in love” with your content and your students, because when you’re in love, it will radiate out to the learners in your classroom! So get inspired because you won’t be the only one that does!!!
Learners Inspire 