Why Teach?

As educators, we must be mindful and adaptable to the content and students in our classrooms. It's important to adjust our strategies to effectively convey the material. Considering that education is built off uncertainty and ambiguity, educators should focus on being adaptive and reactive to situations as they come and go. 

Teachers should construct a classroom environment where they focus on authentic engagement, a student finds meaning and value in their work, and where they are providing the role of being a supportive figure in their students lives. By maintaining this focus, educators can ensure students feel safe and comfortable in their learning environment. Educators are responsible for ensuring students celebrate their differences and their unique backgrounds— which supports students finding their true potential. A teacher provides chances for performance, creativity, responding, and lifelong musical support.

My obligation as an educator is for students to: 

• understand the role of music in history, contemporary society, and the context of the music they are learning 

• develop sensitive and critical listening skills

• teach students how to use music as a form of expression

• use effective rehearsal strategies and provide lessons that help students understand the context of the music they play, encouraging them to engage with the material both technically and emotionally

• create curriculum that showcases the finer ideas of how music functions into our life

My name is Molly Collins, and I am majoring in Music Education at the Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam.  I teach because I want to nurture students in their lifelong love of music and as they grow as people.