Being a Professional

One important point that I have learned so far in the teacher education program is that all students need the opportunity to work through challenging material to develop skills, expand their knowledge, and grow. If a student does not understand something, it does not mean they do not have the ability to understand. I feel that as a teacher, it is imperative that you always remain free of judgement and respect the learning needs and styles of each student. The responsibility of a teacher is not just to share knowledge, but to ensure that each student is getting the most from the knowledge you are sharing, and that you remain open to acquiring knowledge and evolving as well. Teaching is not simply presenting information but providing an experience where all students have the opportunity to reach their potential.

 Given what I have learned so far, being a professional means always remaining critically aware of the assumptions and beliefs that form one’s decisions and actions, and being able to critically examine any assumptions and biases that one may carry toward students. Professionals must be able to adapt teaching styles to accommodate the needs of all learners, which includes appropriate planning, preparation and modification of learning materials as necessary. Professionals remain open to new ideas, value diversity, and understand that not everyone experiences things the same way.