Alex Friedrich
In light of the discussion over this week’s release of the National Council on Teacher Quality ratings of teacher preparation programs at U.S. colleges and universities, I was interested to catch this topic on this morning’s Daily Circuit:
‘Six things I wish I’d known when I started teaching’
It might reveal a bit about what some teachers don’t know when they come out of teacher-prep programs. And some of this might apply to collegiate-level teaching as well.
You can listen to the audio when it’s posted here a little later on, but for now here are some bits from the lists drafted by three current and former Minnesota teachers:
- Not everyone is like me – a lot of people don’t like learning or school.
- It’s all about the authentic relationships you have with the students in your class.
- Develop a thick skin soon – especially in the age of email.
- You’re walking in an idealist, strive to stay that way. Do this by getting involved, accepting change and launching your ideas in “beta” mode.
- Although it may seem like technology has gotten to a slowing pace, it hasn’t.
- The effect of the internet, specifically as it relates to plagiarism
- Prioritize the building of reciprocal relationships with all students while understanding that those relationships alone are not enough.
- Trust students with curriculum. Listen to what students are bringing into the classroom and use that to guide the teaching and learning in your classroom community.
- Give yourself time to learn.
- Be humble. Do not think you ever have teaching figured out.
Anything missing — or that doesn’t apply?
