Classroom Teaching Styles

“The one exclusive sign of thorough knowledge is the power of teaching.” Aristotle

Indeed, teachers act as a guiding beacon for their students. They are the ones who inspire young minds, ignite their imagination, teach them academic as well as life lessons and lead them to success. However, it is also true that not all teacher can be an ideal model for their students. Teaching is an art, which is defined by several factors, with teaching style being an important one.

A teacher’s teaching style, to a large extent, impacts the teaching-learning process in the classroom. It is the teaching style that defines a person’s capability as a teacher. Therefore, those aspiring to be ideal teachers should take an initiative to improve their teaching styles.

The following are some time-tested methods that teachers can follow to teach effectively in the classroom.

Be empathetic but stay strict: For effective classroom teaching, teachers should be empathetic but stay strict at the same time. More clearly, be sincere about the well-being of your students, stay very close to them, strike a bond with them but do not be a patsy. Make sure your students obey you and follow all the rules and guidelines set by you. Encourage your students to set daily, weekly and monthly learning goals so that they can develop a passion for learning instead of being compelled to do it.

Have patience and control yourself: Being a guiding beacon, a teacher must put his/her best foot forward in assisting students in the learning process. At times, it may be difficult for teachers to control themselves while dealing with students (especially the errant ones). Therefore, mastering the art of controlling emotions in the classroom works as a stepping stone to a successful teaching-learning process. Stick to your point, encourage your students, have patience—soon, you will find it easier to manage your classroom and create a holistic learning environment.

Cater for all learning abilities: An outstanding and motivating teacher always caters for all kinds of students in the classroom. It is true that learning abilities of students vary. While some students respond well to hands-on learning, some to visual learning. However, under the conventional method, a standard teaching process is followed in the classroom, which may not be much effective. On the other hand, a great teacher always tries to incorporate new methods in his/her lesson planning. Such modifications help him/her in catering to individual learning needs of students in the classroom.

Well-prepared: Effective teachers draw up their lesson plans meticulously. They observe strengths as well as weaknesses of their students and prepare their lesson plans accordingly. They stay organized and make the teaching-learning process as effective as possible through constant preparation and planning.

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