Tag: Teacher

Learning

As a teacher, many factors determine a successful classroom experience.

We may use visual aids (PowerPoint, whiteboard or handouts). We may incorporate dialogue. 

Whatever we choose, the bottom-line involves learning. Is the student learning the material being presented?

The most common mistake is the thought that teachers teach and students learn. This mentality leads to a lecture style of teaching and avoids discussion that might challenge the thinking of the teacher.

As a leader, we must first be a student ourselves. We need to use every opportunity to learn from others.

Each person has knowledge, life experience, and abilities that should make the classroom a place where everyone learns.

Role Model

Teaching provides an opportunity to influence the greatest amount of people at one time. However, Rosabeth Moss Kantor says, “Leaders are more powerful role models when they learn than when they teach.”

When I read the quote it reminded me of the most powerful leaders that live. They are learners first, then teachers.

When students see their teachers passionate about learning and sharing what they learn, it excites everyone involved in the process. What a powerful combination!

If we want to grow in our leadership example and be the kind of role model others can emulate, then exemplify this thought.

Life, the Great Teacher…

Life is an amazing teacher. Sadly, these lessons tend to be the hardest and most life changing. An old Cherokee saying claims, “Everything in life comes to you as a teacher. Pay attention. Learn quickly.”

Do we pay attention and learn from what life teaches?

If we only had a method to help us remember from the mistakes so we do not repeat them and use the success we experience to duplicate it. 

Every event, every person, and every second of every day is a classroom that teaches and prepares us for greater leadership. Our job is to pay attention and learn quickly.

The better student we are the more success we experience as leaders.