This paper outlines foundational principles and practical strategies for effective teaching. It begins with the seven principles of good practice, covering student-faculty communication, cooperative learning, active engagement, timely feedback, time management, high expectations, and respect for diversity. The paper then surveys ten common teaching methods — from lectures to values clarification exercises — weighing the advantages and drawbacks of each. A review of frequently used visual aids follows, assessing their practical strengths and limitations. The paper concludes with a summary of the top ten qualities that define good teaching, emphasizing the emotional, intellectual, and community dimensions of the educator's role.
A good teacher must first and foremost create an environment in which communication flows freely between students and faculty. Students are more apt to commit to their education when faculty members make a genuine effort to show personalized concern about student performance. Secondly, faculty members must foster a sense of teamwork — both between themselves and their students, and within the student body as a whole. Meaningful discussion depends on a culture of collaborative, team-based learning.
Active learning is also essential: real learning occurs through intellectual engagement. Unless students write about what they are learning and connect it to past and present experiences, they are unlikely to retain it. Students also require regular and prompt feedback so they can identify their deficits and strengths; learning how to assess themselves is itself part of the learning process.
Students must develop effective time management skills, guided by a teacher's example of setting realistic expectations for the time required by different tasks. At the same time, teachers must communicate high expectations. Students will not strive to improve unless the bar is set high, and both high and low expectations can become self-fulfilling prophecies. Finally, teachers must show respect for the diversity of their students — not only cultural diversity, but also the diverse ways in which students learn. Teachers can encourage students to adopt new approaches to material, but they must also remain flexible in structuring their own lesson plans.
Each instructional method carries distinct advantages and limitations. Understanding these trade-offs helps educators select the approach best suited to their learning objectives and student needs.
"Practical trade-offs of six classroom visual tools"
"Holistic personal qualities defining excellent teachers"
You’re 34% through this paper. Sign up to read the remaining 2 sections.
Sign Up Now — Instant Access Already a member? Log inAlways verify citation format against your institution’s current style guide requirements.