What subject did you dread going to? Geometry? Health? As a teacher-to-be, you might look back on your high school loathings and fear that you will ruin English for your students. And though this is possible, chances are you won’t. Your students’ success is the result of many influences, including their home lives and intrinsic motivation, in addition to your teaching methodology.
But most of us are teachers because we care about our students. So we do our best to get them excited about learning and make a positive impression on their future interests. If you’re intending to teach English abroad and just aren’t sure where to start, keep reading for some classroom considerations that will help you become the teacher you want to be.
First Impressions Are First Impressions
They aren’t everything but they do live up to their name. What students think of you on the first day makes a difference in the classroom environment you create. Let your personality become part of the classroom. Teach in a way that fits both your instructional style and your subject. You are a professional and you should be mindful of how your students perceive you. Their relationship with you will undoubtedly have an effect on their academic performance. Establishing a productive learning environment where students feel free to ask questions can make a huge difference.
Remember Why You’re There
We both know you are probably teaching to put food on your table. But apart from the necessity to have a job in general, remember why you’ve chosen teaching. Your role is to facilitate an educational process. Give your students reasons to learn; root your class in the real world. It helps if your students can see the benefits learning English will bring them outside of the classroom. Design activities that cater to students’ interests and could have practical relevance to their lives. Teachers are used to hearing the inquiry: “Why would I ever need to know this?” And though you have the power to counter with “because” wouldn’t it be better to show them?
Respect Is Mutual
Getting respect is more difficult when you don’t show any. And it can’t be forced. Problems are always better dealt with when approached constructively rather than defensively. And your teacher-student relationships will be better for it. Try your best to not lose your temper even when students have the incredible capacity to have no idea what subject you are covering 40 minutes into class. Don’t tolerate disrespect but your tactics shouldn’t be fear-based. This never yields a productive or enjoyable learning environment for teachers and students alike. Establish rules and consequences early on. Then manage your classroom calmly and consistently. If you have clear expectations and address the class respectfully, you’re more likely to receive respect in return.
Build Relationships
Remember the details that students share with you. And develop professional relationships with them to show that you care. Young people especially tend to have an authority complex. So instead of perpetuating the idea that you’re heading a dictatorship, let them have a voice in their learning. You will be teaching according to an array of established rules but how will you enforce them? Students shouldn’t feel like you’re out to get them. Your overall classroom environment will improve if you involve students in their own educational process and address them as individuals.
See Each Student as an Individual
Because each student is different, you might need to adapt your approach sometimes. What is an effective method for one student will turn into a dumpster fire with another. But it is very important not to appear as if you’re comparing students based upon their performance. If it’s not clicking with half of the class, maybe you’re the one who needs to change. All of your lessons should cater to different learning styles and personalities. This variety will make it less likely that the same students keep getting left behind. Do hands-on activities; demonstrate visually; have written instructions and ask your students to read them. Some students prefer to sit and write quietly while others might as well be teaching the class. There should be a little bit for everybody.
Keep Your Classroom Current
An openness to experimenting with new teaching methods and an awareness of current events go a long way in convincing your students that you aren’t their grandparents’ age. Your lessons will always be more effective if you’re willing to change. Use resources online and learn from your mistakes. But being up to date isn’t only a matter of teaching techniques. Teach your students about what’s going on in the world around them and let them teach you too. Bring their interests into the classroom and allow them to be a part of assignments. Implementing technology is another way to keep your students engaged and your classroom current.
Be Professional and Fun
Class beer pong competition, not great. Teaching solely from the textbook, not a fireable offence but again not great. You should take your responsibilities seriously but you should also be human. Students are more likely to participate if you are approachable. Laughter doesn’t need to be a distraction. Humor can be part of the educational process. Learn to laugh at yourself and help your students find joy in learning.
Hopefully these considerations will help you avoid any resemblance to a teacher from the music video for Pink Floyd’s “The Wall.” And if you are still interested in pursuing a career as an English teacher, feel free to peruse Máximo’s TEFL certification programs to help you get started!