Competency 6:
Communication
Communication
"The way we communicate with others and ourself ultimately determines our queality of life."
— Toni Roddings
Communication:
The student teacher demonstrates correctness in the use of verbal and non-verbal communication. The student knows the value of language as a tool to stimulate oral and written expression, inquiry and collaborative interaction inside and outside of the classroom.
During my teaching practice, the communication competency was one of the most significant aspects of my teaching development. Communication, both verbal and non-verbal, is essential for effective learning and interaction within the classroom. One of the main areas I focused on was ensuring that I used clear, accessible, and appropriate language for each student. When explaining activities, instructions, and concepts, I always made an effort to be explicit and to use examples that facilitated comprehension, adjusting my communication according to the needs and levels of my students.
Additionally, in oral assessments, I promoted the expression of ideas and the development of critical thinking. Students had to present various group projects and individual assignments, which allowed them to practice oral communication. These activities not only enhanced their ability to argue effectively but also gave them the opportunity to express themselves clearly and coherently. During these presentations, I provided specific feedback, focusing on both their fluency and the organization of their ideas.
Non-verbal communication also played an essential role in creating a positive learning environment. I used eye contact, gestures, and tone of voice to reinforce my messages and create a welcoming atmosphere that encouraged active participation from all students. My posture and facial expressions were crucial in conveying openness and empathy, making students feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of making mistakes.
A noteworthy event related to this competency was the parent-teacher meeting, where I had the opportunity to interact directly with the parents of my students. In this setting, I was able to communicate effectively and professionally, sharing the students’ academic progress and providing recommendations for improvement. This dialogue also allowed me to gain a better understanding of the students’ family contexts, which helped me tailor my pedagogical approaches and foster an atmosphere of trust and collaboration with the families. For confidentiality reasons, I do not have photos from the meeting.
In conclusion, communication was a strength that allowed me to establish clear and positive relationships with both students and families. Thanks to my command of both verbal and non-verbal language, I was able to create an interactive and respectful learning environment that facilitated students’ academic and personal development. The constant interaction, both inside and outside the classroom, helped strengthen my ability to convey ideas, listen, and adjust my teaching methods according to the students’ needs.
To demonstrate mastery of this sixth competence, communication, I present the reflection I carried out as a requirement for my EING 4046 class: Assessment of English as a Second Language Learners, during the first semester of 2023-2024.
With this evidence, I demonstrate my full command of various skills integral to this competence. It's crucial to emphasize that this reflection led me to internalize the profound impact educators have in communicating values and knowledge to our students. Ensuring their ability to express themselves orally and in writing, and leading by example, is the most potent tool we possess to guarantee their learning extends beyond classroom subjects and topics.
To illustrate the relevance of this evidence to competence, it's important to highlight the significant learning acquired through this reflection. Recognizing the transformative power educators wield in the lives of our students is a profoundly beautiful realization. It underscores that teaching is not just a profession; it's an experience and sensation one must inherently possess to truly thrive in.
In this seminar it is not required to demonstrate this competence