Some attribute academic success to a school or its curriculum. Others view parental support as the key to student achievement. While all of these factors add value to a child’s education, the influence of a great teacher may be the most essential element of all.
So what makes a teacher exceptional? As we celebrate educators during National Teacher Appreciation Week, let’s examine the characteristics of an outstanding teacher.
Compassion. A great teacher must care. When a student senses a teacher’s apathy, the temptation for that child to adopt an indifferent approach toward school can be too great to resist. On the other hand, if a teacher regularly inspires, challenges, and encourages his or her students, students are much more likely to reciprocate with enthusiasm.
Patience. Exceptional teachers know when to stand back and allow students the time and freedom to figure something out on their own. Because it means loosening control and letting the child lead, this can be one of the most difficult plateaus for a teacher to reach. Many take years to get there. Some never do.
Flexibility. An effective teacher must be willing to adapt to change. In today’s educational world, flexibility often involves a willingness to embrace technology. Just as the automobile replaced the horse and buggy, teachers must learn to accept computers as a learning tool, or they risk denying their students up-to-date information and a valuable research method. Technology need not supersede traditional book learning, but demonstrating the flexibility to experiment with new teaching methods is integral to providing students with a well-rounded education in the 21st century.
Teaching is and always will be a noble profession, and the responsibility is enormous. With the right combination of compassion, patience, and flexibility, an exceptional teacher can make a lasting impact on a student’s education. As Proverbs 22:6 reminds us, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”
What other positive traits do great teachers have in common? Share them below!