THE ROLE OF A TEACHER
BEYOND TEACHING FACTS
Teachers cannot see themselves as someone whose job is to solely teach. A teacher has to be a role model to their students and this goes beyond just teaching from a textbook.
Versatility
Needlessly to say, teachers firstly need to have the relevant expertise to teach children. Teachers must be up-to-date with changes in the curriculum from MOE and their primary job is the ensure that knowledge is dispensed to and absorbed by students. There is no one way to teach; teachers must understand that every child learns differently or at a different pace of learning. Teachers must be equipped with the relevant skills and expertise to cater to different learning abilities and learning styles of the students.
Creating study-friendly spaces
Teachers also play an important role in the classroom aura. Students are affected by a teacher’s mood. If the teacher prepares a warm, happy environment, students are more likely to be happy. If students sense the teacher is angry, impatient and disinterested, they may react negatively. Learning will be impaired. The classroom dynamics is primarily a reflection of the teacher’s demeanour, actions and the mood he sets.
Role Modelling
Teachers typically do not think of themselves as role models. But they are. Students spend a great deal of time with their teacher. Students look up to them. This can be a positive or negative impact depending on the teacher.
Mentoring
Mentoring is the way a teacher encourages students to strive to be the best that they can be. It is coming alongside a student who needs help or attention. This also includes encouraging students to enjoy learning. Part of mentoring consists of listening to students. By taking time to listen to what students say, teachers impart to students a sense of belonging in the classroom. This helps build their confidence and helps them want to be successful.
Signs of Trouble
Another role played by teachers is a protector role. Teachers are taught to look for signs of trouble in the students. When the students’ behaviours change or physical signs of abuse are noticed, teachers are required to look into the problem. Or in severe cases, report it. Teachers must follow faculty procedures when it comes to following up on all signs of trouble.