An Introduction to Teacher Development

Summary

The video explores the essential qualities of effective teachers in the 21st century, highlighting the importance of both subject matter expertise and social-emotional intelligence. It emphasizes the need for teachers to experiment with innovative teaching methods, such as project-based learning, and to stay updated with evolving technologies. The video showcases various teaching practices, including mentorship, collaboration, and continuous professional development. Through interviews with educators and examples from successful schools, it underscores the value of passion for learning and the impact of well-prepared teachers on student success.

Takeaways

• 😀 Teachers should encourage experimentation with ideas and be comfortable with instructional methods like project-based learning.
• 😀 Effective teachers need more than just knowledge of their subject; they must also promote social and emotional intelligence.
• 😀 The Think-First model emphasizes helping students assess and respond thoughtfully in challenging situations.
• 😀 Teachers play a crucial role as mentors, coaches, and guides, helping students take charge of their own learning.
• 😀 Good teachers must have a passion for learning and a desire to share that passion with students.
• 😀 Teacher preparation programs must integrate educational theory with practical field experience and mentorship.
• 😀 Professional development and continuous self-assessment are essential for teachers, especially in their first five years.
• 😀 A full-time dean of instruction can offer valuable feedback and support to both veteran and new teachers.
• 😀 Teachers who are well-prepared are better able to engage students and stay in the profession longer.
• 😀 Teachers must model social and emotional intelligence, providing an invaluable human connection for students.
• 😀 Successful teacher preparation programs offer strong mentoring, support after graduation, and feedback to improve teaching skills.

Q & A

What is the core focus of the Think-First model in education?

The Think-First model emphasizes the importance of experimenting with ideas and being on the edge of what one understands in order to foster deeper learning.

What are some essential qualities that modern teachers should have according to the narrator?

Modern teachers should not only have solid subject knowledge but also know how to promote social and emotional intelligence, be comfortable with instructional methods like project-based learning, and keep up with evolving technologies.

How does the teacher respond when a student provides a good answer during a lesson?

The teacher reinforces the student’s response positively, encouraging them with phrases like 'Good' or 'Right' to validate their participation and engagement.

What does Ada believe is necessary for a teacher to be effective?

Ada believes that good teachers are not born but educated, and that a passion for learning is crucial for teachers to effectively share knowledge and engage students.

What is the role of mentorship in teacher education?

Mentorship plays a critical role in teacher education, with experienced teachers and professors guiding new educators, helping them integrate educational theory with practical classroom experience.

What approach does High Tech High in San Diego use to prepare teachers?

High Tech High has created its own School of Education on campus, focused on developing teachers who can thrive in classrooms that feature cross-curricular projects, blending hands-on experience with theoretical learning.

What specific teaching qualities does Larry value in teachers?

Larry values teachers who have deep content knowledge, passion for their subject matter, and the ability to dynamically engage students and spark their curiosity.

Why is ongoing professional development important for teachers?

Ongoing professional development is essential as it helps teachers refine their skills, especially in the first five years of teaching, ensuring they remain effective in their roles and continue to meet high expectations.

What support system is in place for teachers at Yes Prep in Houston?

At Yes Prep, a full-time dean of instruction conducts periodic classroom observations and provides feedback to both veteran and new teachers, helping them maintain high teaching standards.

What impact does well-prepared teacher training have on teacher retention?

Teachers who are well-prepared and trained are more likely to stay on the job longer. Their ability to engage students and provide emotional intelligence enhances their effectiveness, leading to a greater impact on students’ lives.