More tips from Lisa: Perpetual learning

8/19/2009 10:49:21 AM

By Lisa A. Dennis
Contributing writer

As teachers, we understand a lot about learning – what works and what doesn’t. So it’s important to keep in mind that we too have a lot to learn, regardless of tenure. Here are a few more tips to keep your head on straight and your spirits high:

Hold on to the basics that helped you survive year one. Stay organized, communicate clearly, and experiment with techniques to best fit the students in front of you.

Remember that collaboration means sharing, not dictating. In a profession where people have been mastering their craft for 30-plus years, it may be unwise to suggest sweeping changes to their practice. Consider your students as inspiration in this area. Students flourish under strong leadership that guides discovery. In fact, it is through discovery that passion builds within the learner. Collaborate with the possibilities in mind.

Set realistic goals. Too often, teachers who have been dreaming of the job since childhood expect perfection from themselves to maintain that fantasy. Work with what you have and make the very best of the opportunities presented to you. Guilt and self-loathing will do little for your effectiveness. Be kind to yourself and realize that experience will bring growth.

Maintain your sense of humor. Without one, you will be miserable. The world of education can be a devastating place; this is true. It can, however, be hilarious. Be willing to laugh at yourself, first and foremost. If you take things too seriously, every mishap will sink your ship. Say you take a tumble in front of your class. No grace. No style. Just embarrassment. You could either get flustered or dazzle your class with an impromptu tap dance. Roll with the punches and set a tone that puts everyone at ease.

Maintain a life. Nothing kills a career faster than letting it become the center of your existence. Teachers take pride in their contributions, and rightly so. We work hard year-round and take on the stress of a career, our students, and our own expectations. But, make sure to know yourself outside the classroom, too. Surrounded by students all day, every day can make it difficult to remember how to have adult conversation. Stay connected with friends and family that are outside the profession. They can give you perspectives that will renew your commitment and keep you sane.

Colleen Wilcox once said, “Teaching is the greatest act of optimism.” In an age where stress and uncertainty can make the career very pessimistic indeed, hold strong to what brought you to teaching in the first place. With an optimistic outlook and the benefit of experience, educators can combat negativity and stay focused on the ultimate goal: learning.

Lisa A. Dennis is a teacher at Franklin High School.

Sidebars