Marva Collins, an American educator, says, “The good teacher makes the poor student good and the good student superior.”
You must be aware of Teachers’ Day – a day marked to appreciate teachers by honoring their contributions. In the Indian context, 5th September is remembered as Teachers' Day, honoring the birthday of Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the second President of India. Guru Purnima is also traditionally observed as a day to worship teachers.
In general, since time immemorial, a teacher has been regarded as a guru, who is the master of knowledge in a particular domain. They always acts as a mentor. They help the seeker to learn values and share knowledge. They are a source of inspiration.
In reality, there is no good or bad teacher, but the result counts. A good teacher is capable of transforming a student’s life. Students follow the valuable lessons from a teacher to lead a successful and enriched life.
A good teacher can clearly explain ideas to all students with varying learning capabilities and impart knowledge in innovative ways.
Let’s see what the quintessential attributes of a good teacher are.
Qualities of a good teacher
Some of the qualities of a good teacher include communication skills, listening skills, cooperative attitude, adaptability, empathy, and patience.
- They should be strong communicators who listen and understand students’ concerns with patience and flexibility when required.
- They must show empathy.
- They should adopt a collaborative approach and keep learners engaged.
- They should follow the best practices of teaching.
- They should be role models and practice what they preach.
- They should consider “teaching” as art with heart.
Key characteristics of a good teacher
Good teachers work hard to create a challenging, nurturing environment for their students. Good teaching seems to have less to do with your knowledge and skills than with your attitude towards your students, the subject and the work.
The key characteristics of a good teacher are:
[1] A good teacher always respects their students.
Every person's ideas and opinions need to be valued. Students should feel safe expressing their feelings and learn to respect and listen to others. A good teacher creates a welcoming learning environment for all students.
[2] A good teacher develops a sense of community and belonging in the classroom.
Mutual respect in the classroom creates a reassuring, supportive environment. There are rules to follow in this student community and a job to do, and every student is aware that he/she is an important, integral part of the group. A good teacher lets students know that they can rely on the whole class, not just on him/her.
[3] A good teacher maintains professionalism.
Ideally, a good teacher maintains their personal and professional outlook. Their exemplary communication skills soothe the audience. Their quiet talk with colleagues and peers is exemplary, earning them respect.
[4] A good teacher is adaptable and flexible.
A good teacher evaluates their teaching throughout the lessons and finds new ways to present teaching material to ensure that each student understands the main concepts.
[5] A good teacher is always caring and available to guide students.
A good teacher is reachable not only for the students but for everyone on the school campus. Students can go to him/her with any problems or concerns or share light moments. Good teachers take time out of a hectic schedule for those who need them.
[6] A good teacher sets great expectations.
A good teacher understands that the expectations from students significantly affect their success. They remain optimistic about the results.
[7] A good teacher loves teaching.
An attentive teacher wholeheartedly accepts the service of learning. He/she inspires students to love their curriculum. They constantly renew themselves as a professional to provide students with the highest quality education possible.
[8] A good teacher always remains prepared for teaching.
Good teachers don’t bother much about new subjects and curriculum developments and stay aware of add-ons over time. They readily accept new teaching strategies and lessons and are always ready to share what they have learned with colleagues.
[9] A good teacher is a professional guide.
Unlike administrative leaders, good teachers focus on collective decision-making and teamwork as well as community-building. Good teachers convey this sense of leadership to students by giving them a chance to take on leadership roles.
[10] A good teacher collaborates with colleagues on an ongoing basis.
A good teacher uses constructive criticism and advice as an opportunity to grow as a teacher. Rather than feeling offended by suggestions or help, this teacher sees cooperation as a way to learn from fellow professionals.
What makes teaching effective?
Effective teachers are essential for student development and academic success. If you want to be a good teacher, you need to demonstrate strong communication, teamwork, time management, problem-solving, and organization skills. Then you must use these skills to educate your students.
For those looking for a career in education, it is essential to focus on your education first. Whether you have a bachelor's degree in education, a master's degree in education or a Doctor of Education (EdD), building a solid foundation of knowledge and real-world experiences is key to becoming a good teacher.
Teachmint is keen on changing the future of education with its advanced LMS and ERP tools. With more than 20+ modules for educational institutions like admission management, attendance management system, performance management, and more; it is changing the teaching-learning experience.
