Information Related to "The Value of Student-Teacher Relationships"
| Audio/Video |
Browsing
my high school's Web site, I smiled to find this quote from Ross Thomas—my
senior English teacher, basketball coach and college counselor. Learning
from Ross was a joy. His enthusiasm, insight into human nature, storytelling
and good-natured wit starred in every lesson. Under his guidance I interpreted
Shakespeare, practiced low-post moves and polished college application
essays.
At graduation we both expressed how much we'd miss daily interaction in class and on the basketball court. Departing for college, I'd only begun to realize the value of his influence in my life. Forming sincere, personal bonds of respect with a teacher can maximize your classroom experience and life thereafter.
The first obvious benefits of strong student-teacher relationships appear in class. We all tend to make greater efforts for people we like. Throughout life, I've worked the hardest for my favorite teachers. Because I admired Ross, I naturally paid more attention in his class, asked more thoughtful questions and devoted more energy to assignments.
I also expected class to be valuable. Just as students often improve to meet a teacher's standards, I believe teachers will also rise to fulfill student expectations on the high school and even the college level. Many college professors shoulder research and publishing responsibilities. These can easily detract from class preparation. But motivated, engaging students can help teachers maintain balance. The better a teacher knows his or her students, the better able he or she becomes to customize examples and activities. Relevant material can mark the difference between a pivotal class and a waste of time. Other students will likely benefit from a teacher's heightened efforts as well.
Related Information on UCG Sites:
Table of Contents that includes "The Value of Student-Teacher Relationships"
Other Articles by Sharon Babcock
Teens and education: