Great teachers know that each student in their class is unique. Not only do they know their ability to learn, but they also have a deep understanding of who they are as a person. From their interests and hobbies, to their social skills and learning style, effective teachers understand their students beyond what they see in the classroom. Below are some of the things great teachers know about their students.
Your interests and hobbies
Great teachers have a deep understanding of their students’ interests and hobbies. They know what they like to do outside of school and how they can incorporate those interests into their teaching. For example, if a student is interested in football, a teacher can use football statistics in math lessons. If a student is interested in music, a teacher can use songs to teach grammar.
Your strengths and weaknesses
Great teachers not only know their students’ academic strengths and weaknesses, but they also know their social and emotional skills. They know the areas in which students struggle, as well as the areas in which they excel. They use this information to adapt their teaching and provide appropriate support to help students succeed.
Your learning style
Great teachers know that students have different learning styles. Some learn best through reading and writing, while others learn best with pictures and videos. Effective teachers adapt their teaching to meet the needs of each student, offering a variety of teaching strategies and resources to support different learning styles.
Your personality
Great teachers know that a student’s personality can affect their ability to learn and relate to others. By knowing their students’ personalities, teachers can adapt their teaching and approach to support their social and emotional needs. For example, a shy student may need more time to speak in class and participate in group discussions, while an extroverted student may need more time to work independently.
Your challenges and problems
Great teachers know that their students may face challenges and problems outside of the classroom that can affect their ability to learn. From problems at home to mental health issues, effective teachers watch for signs that a student may be struggling and offer the right support to help them overcome their challenges.
Your goals and aspirations
Great teachers know their students’ goals and aspirations. They know what they want to achieve in life and how their education can help them achieve those goals. Effective teachers work with their students to establish academic and personal goals, and support them on the path to achieving those goals.
How they relate to others
Great teachers know how their students relate to others in the class and at school. From students who prefer to work alone to those who are natural leaders, effective teachers understand the social dynamics of the classroom and work to create a positive and supportive learning environment.
In short, great teachers know that knowing their students goes beyond simply knowing their academic ability. They understand and care about who they are as people, and use this information to tailor their teaching and provide the right support to help their students succeed in school and in life.
