My personal goal for any classroom is to challenge students while being an approachable and supportive role in their lives. As a teacher who uses an inquiry-based, project-based approach, I want students to contemplate and have the freedom to exploring while asking and answering questions on their own. All while feeling safe and comfortable to do so without judgment.
We are all made differently; we all learn differently. I strive to teach with this in mind, focusing on differentiating between each student’s individual needs. Some learn from hearing, some by seeing, and some by doing. I aim to incorporate all of these essential aspects of each lesson and to allow students to learn in a way that feels natural and authentic to them.
I find it extremely important for students to make SMART goals and to track them during the semester, year. I make sure that there is ample time for students to process the class in their journal and document their growth. Reflecting is a vital element to drama as it forces students to effectively challenge their minds and develop their character during the class.
Giving timely feedback is also very important for student development, and I strive to provide immediate feedback on assessments and activities so that students can stay actively engaged in their learning. Incorporating real-life situations into drama activities is also an essential element of my education style because it ensures that students are using their new-found knowledge outside the classroom as well.
Group work is something I found extremely helpful when I was a student. I believe students learn best when they are discussing with each other. By allowing them to be each other’s motivator, instead of just focusing on the teacher’s happiness and grades, group work enables the students to more autonomy in their learning process.
Above all, being approachable is most important to me. I enjoy forming strong bonds with students and being a person of comfort when they face difficult situations. I have strived to provide a safe space for students so that they always feel welcome and comfortable. I believe that my students make up a community that needs my care and guidance. I think that while I am guiding my students on that journey, they are also guiding me.