What does it mean to be a
TEACHER in 2011?
• Being a teacher means you can make a difference.
Education is changing! (It has probably changed since we were in school.)
What is changing?
• Society’s expectations
• Shifting enrolment patterns
• Technology
• Mobility
Some things have not changed.
• Students are still students
• Teaching still involves quality interpersonal relationships
• Teachers still need to be leaders
• Students still learn in classrooms (so far!!)
• Teachers are still the biggest single influence on student learning.
What are the features of a successful teacher in 2011 ?
To be successful you need:
• Enthusiasm.
• A genuine care for children.
• A capacity to solve problem.
• The ability to relate to ALL types of people
• A willingness to work hard, particularly in the early years of your career.
• A thorough knowledge of the curriculum but more importantly, a thorough knowledge of teaching content.
• Flexibility.
• A belief in lifelong learning.
• A balanced life.
• Good communication skills.
• To be good at something – sport, music, choir, technology, literacy, numeracy and share your greatness.
• A willingness to work long hours.
• A capacity to listen to advice.
• A belief that you can make a difference.
• A sound working knowledge of computers.
Have a working knowledge of your systems policies relating to:
* Child Protection
* Code of Conduct
* Professional Responsibilities
* Legislative requirements
• A belief that all children can learn.
• A belief that all children are innately good.
• To not let an opportunity for learning go by.
• To understand the teaching/learning cycle.
• To continue to search for the elusive answer to this question – “ How do children learn?”
• A willingness to teach students with special needs.
• A knowledge of equity.
• Commitment.
• To be able to work as a member of a team.
• A sense of humour.
• A willingness to listen.
• A willingness to take on board suggestions.
• A willingness to ask for help.
• Know that you have some wonderful support from the system you are in.
• Know your context.
* System
* School
* Opportunities
Best wishes for a wonderful career !
