Take a moment to assess yourself
Picture this: it’s the end of the school academic year, but with a twist—this time, teachers are the ones receiving report cards.
How do you think you’d score? Perhaps good or not-so-great?
If you're feeling unsure, you're not alone. Many teachers wonder what truly separates a good teacher from a great one.
The answer lies in mastering a set of key qualities. This blog will uncover the 7 qualities of a good teacher and help you develop these qualities. It’s time to transform your teaching and score top marks on your 'report card'. 😉
Are you ready to discover these qualities and learn how to develop them? Let’s get started.
Think back to your favorite teacher from when you were a student. What made that teacher stand out? It probably wasn’t just their knowledge; it was their undeniable passion.
Whether it was about Shakespeare or the solar system, their enthusiasm made every lesson captivating. That's the kind of passion that engages classrooms.
Now, imagine being that teacher— the one who can make even the most bored student interested in the class. Keeping your passion alive is the key; even on your tough days.
Want to become a favorite teacher or reignite your passion for teaching? Let’s look at how you can do that:
How Can You Develop or Reignite Your Passion?
- Connect with your 'why': Why did you start teaching? Take a minute and think about it. Reconnecting with that reason can spark your passion.
- Bring personal interests into your lessons: Whether it’s a hobby or a recent book you read, find ways to incorporate that in your lessons. This engages students and rekindles your own excitement for teaching.
- Stay curious and keep learning: The best teachers are also lifelong learners. Try new teaching methods or explore new subjects that excite you. This enhances your teaching and keeps your passion alive.
And to echo the thoughts of an experienced educator, Ms. Paramjeet Kaur Dhillon, Principal at Kamla Nehru Public School, India, shares her heartfelt experience:
Being a teacher is a passion. Every moment brings joy to me, and every tomorrow is better than yesterday. Teaching is a passion that you practice day in and day out.
Catch more of Ms. Paramjeet Kaur Dhillon’s inspiring insights on teaching in our latest podcast here.
If teaching feels like heaven, and every day in the classroom is a joy, then you know you’re doing it right. Keep that passion burning bright!
Having a deep understanding of your subject is one of the 7 qualities of a good teacher. It’s about more than just knowing your facts—it’s about bringing those facts to life for your students.
Think about the times students have stumped you with tough questions. If you can answer those tough questions confidently, that’s when you know you’re really teaching.
That kind of deep knowledge is key to inspiring curiosity. Here’s how to deepen your expertise:
How to Enhance Your Subject Knowledge
- Stay Updated: Keep up with the latest research, books, and trends. This gives you fresh material to bring into your classroom, keeping both you and your students engaged.
- Attend Workshops and Seminars: Look at these as opportunities to absorb new ideas and methods that can change the way you teach. Every session could lead to a new technique for your toolkit.
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- Pursue Higher Education: Consider getting a master’s degree or some specialized certifications to continue your education and deepen your knowledge. This enriches your teaching and opens doors to advanced career opportunities.
Let’s keep the conversation going as we explore more qualities of a good teacher!
Picture your classroom buzzing with energy. Students aren't just sitting quietly; they're asking questions, debating points, and really diving into the textbooks.
That’s what happens when a teacher is an effective communicator. You turn learning into a dynamic, interactive experience that builds their confidence and knowledge.
You can boost your communication skills with these tips:
How to Enhance Your Communication Skills
- Listen Actively: It’s easy to get caught up in the teaching act. But you should try to really listen to your students. What are they curious about? What concerns them? These insights can guide how you teach and connect with them.
- Encourage Questions and Feedback: Let your students know their thoughts and questions are welcome. A simple “What do you think?” can open up the floor and bring shy students into the discussion. This makes your classroom a two-way street, which is where the best learning happens
- Use Clear Language: Notice when students seem lost or disengaged? Maybe the terms were too complex. Or maybe they got lost at a certain point. Break down tough concepts into bite-sized pieces that everyone can understand. Keep it straightforward and relatable, a vital trait of a good teacher.
For more tips on enhancing your questioning skills to boost classroom interaction, check out this blog.
These tips aren’t just about talking. They’re about exchanging ideas in ways that spark interest and understanding, solidifying your status as a favorite teacher.
Keep up the great work, and let's continue this conversation as we explore the qualities of a good teacher.
No two days of teaching are the same, and no two students learn in the same way. Every student learns differently—some prefer visuals, others prefer to listen, and some prefer hands-on experiences. That's where being adaptable and flexible becomes one of the 7 qualities of a good teacher.
It's about adjusting your methods to meet students where they are, ensuring everyone gets the most out of your lessons.
Your mission? To understand and embrace those differences and to ensure every student feels included and excited to learn. Here’s how to enhance your adaptability:
How to Adapt Different Teaching Methods
- Mix Up Your Delivery: Try shaking things up a bit. Use a mix of talks, interactive discussions, and practical activities. This helps catch the attention of different learners and keeps your class lively.
- Ask for Feedback Often: Regularly ask your students for their thoughts on your lessons. Their feedback can help you adjust in real-time and make your teaching even more effective.
- Embrace Technology: Use apps, videos, and online tools to bring a new dimension to your lessons. Technology can really spice up the learning experience and cater to all sorts of learning styles.
Mr. Andrew Torris, from the American International School in the UAE, puts it perfectly:
Teachers have to become adaptable; AI is going to change the way we deliver instructions in the classroom.
He reminds us to keep an open mind and be ready for changes, like using AI, to improve our teaching.
Must Listen
Listen to Mr. Andrew Torris's podcast, in which he discusses the impact of technology on teaching and how teachers can remain adaptable.
Staying flexible means you’re always ready to meet your students’ needs, no matter how they learn.
Let’s keep learning more about what makes a good teacher great!
Ever worry about robots taking over teaching? It’s a common fear. But here’s the thing: no robot can replicate the empathy you bring to your classroom. This is why empathy is one of the 7 qualities of a good teacher. And your superpower in a 'robotic future.'
Empathy starts when you truly see the world from your students' perspectives and walk in their shoes. It’s about feeling their excitement over little successes and understanding their struggles with tough subjects.
Sikhanyiso Maviza, a dedicated Blended Early Intervention Teacher from UAE, captures this beautifully:
I believe in celebrating the littlest of their achievements. One student was really good at math but struggled with reading. We’d do affirmations, 'I can do it,' and tapping to help him relax. Each kid is special in their own way; they get to be who they are in my class.
Related Resource
Watch this beautiful podcast where Sikhanyiso shares more stories of how she helps her students flourish.
You can become everyone’s favorite teacher by enhancing your empathetic approach with these tips:
How to Foster Empathy
- Recognize Non-Verbal Cues: Watch for signs that students are stressed, confused, or uncomfortable. Understanding these signals can help you respond more effectively to their needs.
- Share Your Own Stories: Share personal anecdotes, especially about overcoming obstacles to become more than a teacher—a mentor and a guide.
- Regular, Meaningful Check-Ins: Sometimes, all a student needs is to know someone cares. A simple“How are you doing today?” can make a huge difference, letting them know they’re not alone.
Pro Tip
By embedding empathy in every interaction, you’re not just teaching—you’re nurturing and empowering your students.
Let’s continue exploring what makes a good teacher great.
Ever had one of those days where everything seems to go wrong in the classroom? Maybe it’s constant interruptions or a lesson plan that just isn’t clicking. It’s times like these when your patience and tolerance are really put to the test.
These qualities are essential for keeping your cool and managing the classroom chaos.
They enable you to manage disruptions effectively without hindering the learning process. This stability is key to maintaining a constructive classroom environment.
You can learn to cultivate them with the tips below:
How to Cultivate Patience and Tolerance
- Pause and Breathe: When you feel yourself getting overwhelmed, take a moment to pause and take a deep breath. It’s amazing how a few seconds of mindfulness can help you reset and regain your composure.
- Adjust Your Expectations: Remember that each student learns differently. Embracing this can help you stay flexible and reduce frustration. When you adjust your expectations, you’re less likely to feel let down by the day's challenges.
- Prioritize Self-Care: Remember to take care of yourself amidst the chaos of teaching. Prioritize your own well-being to ensure you have the resilience to face whatever comes your way.
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By practicing these skills, you not only improve your teaching but also model how to handle stress gracefully—a valuable lesson for your students.
Have you ever noticed how a student’s eyes light up when they're appreciated? That spark can lead them to achieve things they never thought possible.
Good teachers know the incredible power of motivation and encouragement in unlocking a student’s potential.
Orcilla Giliomee, a seasoned English teacher from South Africa, perfectly encapsulates this quality:
I realize that the students have been entrusted to me by their parents, and it is my responsibility to help each one of them achieve their full potential academically, emotionally, spiritually, and physically.
Her students speak of her not just as an educator but as a role model in education and life. Watch Orcilla's story and see how she empowers her students to achieve their full potential. Here’s how you can also develop these qualities:
How to Encourage and Inspire
- Celebrate Individuality: Recognize and celebrate each student's unique contributions. This boosts their confidence and shows that you value them as individuals.
- Foster Open Communication: Encourage students to express their thoughts and opinions in class. This freedom enhances their learning experience and helps them feel more connected to the educational process. Master effective classroom communication by reading this detailed blog on the 7-38-55% Rule.
- Provide Targeted Support: Pay attention to the areas where each student struggles and offer tailored support. This personalized attention can make a significant difference in their overall success.
By embedding encouragement and motivation into every aspect of your teaching, you're not just educating—you’re empowering your students to reach their potential.
As we delve deeper into what makes a good teacher outstanding, let’s explore three Bonus Qualities. These can elevate your teaching beyond the foundational 7 qualities of a good teacher.
- Organizational Skills,
- Creativity and Innovation, and
- Dedication and Commitment
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As we wrap up our exploration of the 7 qualities of a good teacher, remember that the journey from a good teacher to a great one isn't just about knowing these traits—it’s about cultivating them.
You've seen what makes a good teacher; now challenge yourself to apply these qualities in your everyday teaching.
Know that each step you take to develop these qualities brings you closer to becoming the teacher you’ve always wanted to be. You have the power to inspire and transform lives. Embrace it, and step into your role as a truly great teacher!
