It’s not easy being a teacher. Not only do we have to introduce subjects to children who are growing as brand new people and who may not have been introduced to a majority of the concepts, principles and facts we are to teach them, but we must do so at a standard that takes everyone’s competency into account. Of course, this may be something to complain about if it wasn’t so rewarding and something we actively look forward to taking care of every day. However – there’s also one element that many of us can find hard to pinpoint or follow, and that’s figuring out how to inspire a love for learning in our children.
Of course, this is because every child in your class has their own highly unique personality, and so breaking through to them all in this way can be tough. However, if you manage this, within your subject or without, it can be one of the most gratifying and worthwhile achievements a teacher can gain.
Let’s consider a few techniques for getting there, techniques that could aid us all going forward:
Worthwhile School Trips
A great school trip can help you take the learning from your classroom and actualize it in the real world. Heading to visit a museum, or a geographical area of interest, or perhaps even to a theatre show re-enacting Shakespeare’s performances in a manner suitable for young teens, having this learning shown to be part of the world and not just an isolated element of your classroom is always helpful. With the best school bus rentals and a couple of parent volunteer chaperones, you’ll be headed in the right direction.
Various Learning Styles
While teachers often have their own style and flair when it comes to teaching, it’s healthy to incorporate those methods within the learning styles of your students. From visual to auditory and kinesthetic learnings (referencing sight, sound and physical demonstrations respectively), a combination of these methods can ensure everyone in the class is engaged. For instance, if learning a play for English class, you may have students listen to the repeated metre of Shakespeare’s words, or watch a theatre performance, or even have your students act out a scene. In this way, you optimize their learning potential and include everyone in that process.
Show Your Own Love For The Subject
Children often learn through osmosis if you’re also interested in the subject and do your best to show them why something is appealing. For instance, discussing how interesting Roman culture is with their innovation of battlefield tactics and societal values (which are especially interesting in the scope of issues that detract from them, such as Colosseum combat), or showcasing why language is so amazing when used by a certain poet – the more passion you have for your subject, no matter what it is, children of any age pick up on that. This is a principle that continues through to adulthood, as well. In that case, showcasing your own love for the subject is an excellent approach.
With this advice, we hope you can inspire a love for learning in your pupils.