I always try to make my class as democratic as possible, although I also know students have not been given the chance to vote for me as their teacher!
What I mean by democratic is creating a friendly and cooperative atmosphere where every one of my student is free to express themselves. I also try hard not to have favourite ones and to take them all seriously: I respect everybody for their human condition and not for the level of English they have. And last but not least, I provide assistance to all of them, and if the more advanced students don’t need help, I give them a more challenging task so that they can feel they are learning.
Of course I sometimes fail, I would say MANY TIMES I do. But I am aware of my errors and of the fact that I’m not perfect. I keep on trying and I think that makes a differences. I’m sure my students can tell.
Chapter 9
By Miriam Rodriguez
What I mean by democratic is creating a friendly and cooperative atmosphere where every one of my student is free to express themselves. I also try hard not to have favourite ones and to take them all seriously: I respect everybody for their human condition and not for the level of English they have. And last but not least, I provide assistance to all of them, and if the more advanced students don’t need help, I give them a more challenging task so that they can feel they are learning.
Of course I sometimes fail, I would say MANY TIMES I do. But I am aware of my errors and of the fact that I’m not perfect. I keep on trying and I think that makes a differences. I’m sure my students can tell.
Chapter 9
By Miriam Rodriguez
5 comments:
Trying always makes a difference, Myr!
Students can defenitely tell if you are commited to your job or not. Showing that you are not perfect, is another way of letting them not that your are only human, just like them.
Kisses,
Romi
Hi Romi! I guess my students can tell that not only am I committed to my job, but that I also enjoy what I do!!!
Kisses,
Miriam
What a pleasure to read you once again, Miriam! No need to wonder, your commitment and professionalism show even when you're in the role of learner, I can tell you that! ;-)
I wish we could all make sure our learners can see all we are "investing" into their success... who can tell?
Anyway, the only ones who don't make errors are those who don't ever risk (can't remember who'd said it!), so I wish you a life full of mistakes! ;-D
Fondly,
Gladys
PS: getting used to following a leader we have not chosen ourselves might be valuable learning indeed for adult life in a democratic society, don't you think? ;-)
I agree with you, but I don´t think students are aware of it. Anyway, I´m not the only leader in the classroom, Am I?
Miriam
You the only leader? Definitely not! But the idea works the same when students are working in teams, or even "have to" follow a gang leader they might want to challenge...
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