Children spend about 40 hours per week in the classroom, for about 40 weeks of the year. The person leading that classroom should not only be qualified to teach, but should be passionate and excited by it. Consider these four characteristics that make a great teacher.
Flexibility of Teaching Style
Not all students learn the same way. While one student might be a visual learner, another student may need to hear the information. Some students need to see a concept in action in order to fully understand it. A great teacher is able to be flexible with his or her teaching style and accommodate all learning types.Advanced Understanding of the Material
An advanced understanding of the material is also key to being a great teacher. Teachers should be able to explain a subject from every angle. Earning a master’s degree in education or in an area of expertise such as mathematics, biology or chemistry enables a teacher to approach complicated subject material and explain it in a variety of ways. Teachers with a master’s degree should be able to teach advanced subject matter as easily as they teach the basics.Willingness to Listen
While it is necessary for a teacher to do a lot of talking in the classroom, it is just as important to be able and willing to listen. Young people have a lot of good ideas, and they need to feel like their voices are being heard. Teachers also need to be able to communicate well with parents and listen to a parent's concern about his or her child's performance. Teachers should be willing to listen to new ideas about how to explore a subject or delve into it at a deeper level.
Passion for Learning
Great teachers have a passion for learning. Just because a teacher has finished his or her formal education, does not mean that the learning process should stop. New discoveries are made in science every day. Even an English teacher can use the latest discoveries in his or her classroom.A student will remember a great teacher throughout his or her entire life. Excellent teachers have the power to make an incredible difference in the life of a student. From being willing to listen and offer flexibility in teaching style to continuing the learning process throughout his or her career, a teacher should have these four characteristics in order to excel in his or her chosen profession.
