| Caring in Teaching
by
Daniel J. Dyman, Ed.D.
Everyone by their actions affects the life of at least another. So, actions can be thoughtful or without consideration of consequences. In teaching, it is especially important to appreciate the power of conduct as well as demeanor.
The adage is true, “Actions speak louder than words.” But, words as well have impact.
The demand for achievement in learning is likely overwhelming for quite a few if not a vast majority of students. And, while teachers ought to be enthusiastically working in support of the high standards of performance, teaching should be more about helping students succeed as they can rather than in covering an overdose of material. Coverage is of secondary importance. Learning to learn in a subject area is of considerably more value because at any later time, a person can expand their knowledge base as interest may dictate by means of the acquired skills. So, give students insights on how to study in general and in particular the subject matter of into which they should be immersed.
Everyone can learn something meaningful about everything. Individuals need the opportunity to try in a positive supportive environment that supports a second chance and additional repetitions as may be needed. Dwell time may be necessary accommodating effort leading to the self-belief, “I can do this.” Permit students to gain confidence. A second chance at a test may even earn a grateful response.
Thank you so much for giving me a second chance. It really means a lot, more than you may know. I feel blessed that I got the chance to be one of your students because it’s great to know that you truly care about us. There should be more like you. Thanks again.
Consequently, teaching is more than expectations of students and more than demonstrations of personal knowledge. Certainly, it should never be about “weeding and sorting” as many might contend. It is foremost about caring for each and every student as they may need. Caring includes making the effort to know the needs of every classroom participant. So, as permissible, try to be helpful.
In addition, caring includes offering encouragement to strive in the attainment of goals and in providing the motivation to remain focused on the task of study that enables learning. It is an inclination to contribute to the welfare of another. It is being empathetic as necessity arises. It is personified through generosity, by giving to accommodate a perceived inadequacy or insufficiency, by attempting to ensure the achievement and well-being of another. So, care, encourage, motivate, and accommodate. Step up. Be helpful. Be an ally. Everyone deserves every opportunity to accomplish something. Everyone needs to believe that they matter and have merit as well as self-worth.
Overall, caring is characterized by way of a variety of expressions that can be summed up in the expression “Wishing You Well.”
In caring, the life of the care-giver is more wholesome certainly, more noble, more gratifying, and more uplifting. As they value another, they achieve a higher level of self-esteem and a greater sense of self-worth. Their self-assessment says that. So, be mindful, if not the most essential ingredient of the teaching caring is at least one of the indispensable elements in the teaching protocol.
Dyman Associates
27916 Crestview Drive
Elkhart, IN 46517
574.295.9098
http://www.DymanAssociates.com
Creation date : 04/12/2008 @ 15:48
Last update : 10/12/2008 @ 15:23
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