Building strong relationships with students is paramount to effective teaching. However, there are common pitfalls that new teachers often fall into, hindering their ability to connect with their students. This article explores the crucial things not to learn from negative experiences and how to prioritize building positive relationships instead.
Mistaken Priorities: Content Over Connection
Early in my teaching career, I mistakenly prioritized content delivery over building relationships with students. Driven by a passion for my subject, I failed to recognize the significance of connecting with students on a personal level. This oversight led to classroom management issues and disengagement. My initial focus was on covering the curriculum, providing minimal feedback, and avoiding deeper conversations. I wrongly assumed that students would learn solely from the content presented, regardless of our relationship. This was a critical error.
Negative Influences: Do Not Learn These Behaviors
Several factors contributed to this misguided approach. Previous experiences with intimidating teachers, negative portrayals of educators in pop culture, and inadequate teacher training all reinforced the idea that strictness and distance were necessary for effective teaching. My practicum experiences, where I was advised “Don’t smile until Christmas,” and a lack of emphasis on student relationships in professional development further solidified these misconceptions. These are precisely the things new teachers should not learn.
The Importance of Positive Relationships: Research-Based Findings
My doctoral dissertation, “Student Perceptions of Teacher Care,” investigated the specific actions teachers take to build strong relationships. The research revealed five key findings: effective teachers provide descriptive feedback, offer assistance when students struggle, engage in conversations about future aspirations, maintain a positive attitude, and value student interests and perspectives. These are the behaviors new teachers should actively cultivate, instead of internalizing negative models. Don’t let past experiences dictate your future classroom.
Actionable Steps: What to Learn Instead
Instead of replicating negative patterns, focus on building genuine connections. Provide personalized feedback, offer individualized support, show genuine interest in students’ lives beyond academics, cultivate a positive classroom environment, and incorporate student interests into lessons. Learning these positive behaviors will foster a supportive learning environment where students feel valued and respected.
Conclusion: Prioritize Connection
Rita Pierson eloquently stated, “Kids don’t learn from people they don’t like.” This simple truth underscores the vital importance of building positive relationships. Do Not Learn the negative lessons of detached teaching. Instead, prioritize connection, empathy, and genuine care for your students. Remember, content without connection is meaningless. Focusing on building positive relationships will not only enhance student learning but also create a more fulfilling teaching experience.
