It can be hard to gauge whether a teacher is effective but there are a few indicators that may help pinpoint characteristics that support the notion of what an ideal teacher should intel. It goes beyond relaying their message through lessons to their students. We celebrate teachers for their problem-solving skills, and the patience they portray while supporting student growth. We know Superstar teachers go above and beyond every day to ensure that every student gets exactly what they need to thrive. This is what makes a good teacher.

Teachers diversify learning for Individual growth

Working with each student individually is a practice many of the best teachers approach uniquely and carefully. They take the time to get to know their students, and their needs, personally and professionally. No two students, have the same life, or have the same learning experience, and teaching a class full of students becomes easier when differentiation is involved. Pacing is another characteristic great teachers have in common. It takes practice and great teachers practice their lesson so it’s nearly seamless. Experienced teachers know in the back of their minds, that lesson plans don’t always go according to plan (Gonser, 2020). Teachers can identify where areas of the curriculum can be enriched with activities to excite students as well as reflect on a lesson to transform it for the future.

Teachers who use Data to improve instruction are “Good Teachers”

Reviewing the effectiveness of their teaching and lesson plans is also crucial for growth. If a teacher creates a lesson plan and it worked last year, depending on the group they may try it again. On the other hand, if a lesson doesn’t work, a good teacher will analyze the lesson, reflect and make appropriate changes based on the class. Transforming a class, at the moment takes skill and practice to meet the curriculum needs of students. Teachers are always finding new ways to present the material to ensure their students will fully comprehend it (Penelope Placide, 2011). 

Teachers keep Growing while Continuing Education

Continuing education is important for teachers, it helps to build networks, access new resources, and explore new ideas. Many of us teachers love to learn, now with technology, there are so many roads to explore. For some teachers, they dive into thier subject, try something new, they may tutor to find creative ways to give studnets access to various content. They may take on a mentor, take new risks and experiences or find alternative subject matter that they may want to explore. This all benefits students; a knowledgeable teacher is a powerful tool in the classroom. 

Teachers love to work in Collaboration

Being part of the team is crucial for good teachers. Sharing with other teachers your new techniques, what worked and what didn’t, and what needs to be improved, all these things help to build a stronger teaching community. When teachers communicate freely and openly with each other, they not only learn new skills but can also help students overcome obstacles that they may not have realized if they had not discussed with the student’s other instructors (Kini & Podolsky, 2016).

 To Become a “Good Teacher” it takes work

In conclusion, the characteristics of some of the best teachers end up being their passion and effort. The amount of effort a teacher continues to contribute will go a long way throughout their career, not only for their students but for their peers and other faculty members as well. If you are looking for professional development experiences check out “What are the 10 Types of Personal Development for Professional Growth,” it will help you explore various options. It has been over 25 years of working with students in the classroom and every year, I continue to use my experiences, tutoring, and thing that I’ve learned along the way to implement in the classroom.

References

Gonser, S. (2020, November 17). Good teaching is not just about the right practices. Edutopia. Retrieved April 28, 2022, from https://www.edutopia.org/article/good-teaching-not-just-about-right-practices

Kini, T., & Podolsky, A. (2016, June 3). Does teaching experience increase teacher effectiveness? A review of the research. Learning Policy Institute. Retrieved April 28, 2022, from https://learningpolicyinstitute.org/product/does-teaching-experience-increase-teacher-effectiveness-review-research?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIgvaL092s9wIVwh-tBh2U2gRmEAAYAyAAEgJ1C_D_BwE 

Placide, P. (2011, June 6). The qualities of a good teacher: A student's perspective. The Thomas B. Fordham Institute. Retrieved April 28, 2022, from https://fordhaminstitute.org/national/commentary/qualities-good-teacher-students-perspective?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIgvaL092s9wIVwh-tBh2U2gRmEAAYASAAEgIOt_D_BwE