BEST TEACHER DESCRIPTION

BEST TEACHER DESCRIPTION

by

Dr. Glen W. Probst

There are many characteristics, techniques, etc. that make for a successful teacher. These may be as varied as the teachers themselves. However, there are certain time-tested attributes, characteristics, and practices which contribute immensely to teacher success. The following list contains items that students have used to describe their best teachers.

1-Enthusiasm

• Students can feel the excitement
• Students easily detect the teacher's love for job and subject
  

2-Preparation

• Teacher knows the subject
• Teacher plans and prepares lessons daily
  

3-Punctuality

• Always arrives on time
• Begins and ends class on time
• Expects and encourages students to arrive on time
  

4-Support and concern for students

• Lets students know that he/she cares about their success
• Takes time with students
• Allows for creativity
• Is friendly and courteous
• Is supportive and encouraging
• Is smiling, caring and loving
  

5-Consistency

• Does not miss class
• Is consistent in attitude and dealings with students
• Is always well prepared to teach class
  

6-Politeness

• Treats students with respect
• Does not condescend
• Avoids embarrassing students in class
  

7-Firmness and control

• Is firm in a kind manner
• Avoids tangents in teaching
  

8-Does not play favorites

9-Provides personal help

• Takes time to explain concept
• Gives individual attention
  

10-Accepts individual differences

11-Employs an effective delivery

• Clarifies for understanding
• Creates a sense of fun with the learning task
• Eliminates bad, irritating and/or distracting habits
  

12-Does not make students lose face

• Avoids criticizing students

13-Has high expectations of class members

14-Is humble

15-Is fair

16-Uses variety

• Uses a variety of learning activities
• Experiments
• Allows for spontaneity
  

17-Has a sense of humor; is relaxed

18-Use of engaged time

• Sets a good pace and provides for a change of pace
• Avoids engaging students in "busy work"
  

19-Use of text

• Is not a slave to the text
• Uses text as a road map
  

20-Keeps within 1-2 days of the scheduled course outline

21-Field trips and other activities

• Applies student experiences to classwork

22-Does not always teach from a sitting or leaning position

23-Interpersonal relationships with students

• Does not allow students to call him/her by first name
• Does not try to win a popularity contest
• Maintains a healthy teacher-student relationship
• Respects students (remember that sometimes what you think is healthy, fun joking with students may be interpreted by them as disapproval and dislike.)

24-Does not allow one or two students to monopolize or dominate the class

25-Keeps accurate records of

• Work completed
• Attendance
• Test results
• Grades