Students all learn differently from one another, but they have primary needs. As a teacher, it is important to make sure that students have their basic needs met. This means being flexible to allow time for snacks, water, bathroom breaks, and rest periods (which can, but don't have to be naps). Teachers also need to tend to students' social needs, ensuring that all students feel comfortable in the classroom and only separating students if it is disruptive to learning. Teachers should include activities that are diverse in nature and attend to students' needs to move and think creatively.
Students should be taught how to pursue learning on their own and how to communicate and grow in a diverse world. It is important for students to have the tools to explore academic interests and materials, as this will allow them to learn outside of schooling Additionally, students should be able to communicate well with their peers and adults so that they can express their knowledge. Finally, students should be taught how diverse their world is and should learn about all types of life.Â
Students should learn through a variety of experimental and instructional methods. Teachers should present new topics in a way that engages students, for example, a slideshow with student-answered questions. Then the students should have an accompanying activity, such as an experiment or guided reading, in which they can apply and explore their knowledge in. Finally, students should be guided through methods of learning, such as studying and annotating techniques, so that they can do these activities on their own time in later education.
Students learn best in a welcoming and homey environment. Classrooms should have calming lighting, flexible seating, and posters/bulletin boards which reflect the world they live in, that is, diverse. Teachers should try to get students to an outdoor classroom environment as much as possible and incorporate many different types of learners into the classroom. Finally, all materials should remain as organized as possible, so that students are able to quickly locate what they need to continue learning.
A good teacher should be communicative, empathetic, organized, and flexible. Teachers should communicate performance academically and behaviorally to students and parents alike, in a clear fashion. Teachers should also be empathetic, as, even though students may have been told what they are doing wrong, they may not understand, or their actions could be caused by another factor, such as family issues. Next, teachers should be organized, allowing other teachers, administrators, parents, and students, to have quick access to the information and tools they need so that teachers do not spend as much time doing busy work. Finally, teachers should be flexible, while it is important to have a plan, very rarely does that plan work out. Lessons should be altered to student needs, to promote deeper understanding and attention.