Date Posted:06:34:07 04/09/07 Mon Author: Amanda M. Subject: Re: Gaining respect as a student teacher In reply to:
Emma
's message, "Gaining respect as a student teacher" on 09:19:40 04/01/07 Sun
I think that student teaching is one of those things that either reinforces your desire to be a teacher or discourages you, based on the experience with the students. I agree with the previous statements of being confident and serious to a certain degree. When I was in Jr. High, we had a student teacher come in and for a few weeks taught our classes. The problem was that this person did not work on the songs with us that the teacher specifically wanted us to, and we the students knew that. We also could tell that the teach was upset when he found out, so I think that it was difficult for the student teacher to win back respect and trust in what he was teaching. If this student teacher would have communicated better, plus at least would have accomplished some of the things that our teacher wanted us to, I think he would have had a better experience.
It is a general principle that if you give what you lack, it will come back to you. In this case, I recommend showing respect for your students and they will be far more likely to return it. As we all know, this is no guarantee on an individual basis, but it will make a significant impact. I think any decent teacher would appreciate that, and your students will be more receptive. Also, as previously mentioned, standing tall with confidence, without being rigid or "stiff," sets the tone of your teaching. In a society where people are so readily judgemental, you want them to know you mean business but you aren't snobbish. What will work differs between teachers. For example, one teacher can be silly and more productive while if another uses humor, it backfires. Finally, remember that you cannot please everyone and that there will always be students that you cannot connect with in the classroom. Be confident, professional, courteous, and stay mindful of the maturity of your "audience."
