It is not easy to ever define a successful teacher, let alone a novice teacher. Every teacher is unique in his/ her teaching style. However, there are some characteristics that must be present and visible at some level. First of all, all teachers must be willing to accept criticism and take in as much information as possible from their colleagues. Open mindedness is critical in the teaching profession, especially for someone who has very little experience in the profession. Listening to their colleagues, including some older teachers and administrators will provide them with some insight and much needed wisdom. A novice teacher should also be very organized and be a good planner.
Well planned lessons are key to being a successful teacher. Also, being open to students and enjoying the time in the classroom. Successful teachers are usually those teachers who are involved in the school beyond the regular school hours. It is very important for novice teachers to involve themselves in school activities. This allows them to become familiar with school policies that are not always dealt with if someone is only in the classroom. Successful novice teachers will apply the knowledge they have learned in school with the knowledge they should acquire by observing older teachers in the school. They should familiarize themselves with all of the ins and outs of the school they work in and don't become too much of a radical in the first years of teaching. That might cost a novice teacher his/ her job very quickly.
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3 comments:
I never really thought that it would be important for a novice teacher to get involved in their school. It is a way for them to feel connected and get to understand some of the politics of the building. It is important for newer teachers not to be "radical" as you mentioned, the first few years. They should listen, watch and learn from themselves as well as others around them.
I agree that as a new teacher it is very important to become involved with the school in other aspects than the classroom. My first year I went to all school games and music productions to show my support to the students and the school in general. Administration usually likes to see their staff present when things are going on after school hours. My second year I coached. This helped me develop relationships with other teachers and students that were not in my grade level. Now I have relationships with many more students than I would have.
I think that novice teachers need more support when it comes to lesson plan design..Just as we are learning the UbD template, novice teachers need to be taught backward design as well, so that they practice the skills when they begin and therefore can employ them more expertly when they become expert teachers.
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