Introduction
Teaching can often be seen as the imparting of knowledge and this is a fundamental part of a teacher’s job. There are however, many other elements to the job such as inspiring and motivating students or imparting deeper understanding of subjects, all of which help prepare the student to enter the adult world. As a teacher, it is essential to ensure that this is done effectively, being able to adapt the pace and style of teaching, to be considerate of students varying needs. In order to achieve this, teachers need to reflect on and have the ability to learn from what they are doing in the present alongside what they have done in the past. Reflective practice then, is the process of examining achievements, goals and practices to improve the learning of students. The Hay McBer report (DfEE 2000, p43) states that, “Reflecting on degrees of success, and analysing …show more content…
A teacher has to consider and manage many things at one time, with priorities changing depending on the time frame being reflected on. Classroom behaviour may be at the forefront on an hourly basis, whereas over the course of a career, refreshing subject knowledge takes on more importance. While priorities change however, there are common themes that run through all time frames and it is these common themes that will be discussed. Having the ability to adapt to these changing needs are one part of being an effective teacher.
Effective teaching has been defined as “that which leads to improved student progress…using outcomes that matter to future success,” (Coe et al, 2014). The Hay McBer report (2000), highlights three main factors affecting pupil progress. Teaching skills, professional characteristics and classroom climate. The report further states that all are linked and “none can be relied on alone to deliver value added teaching”