The Power We Have as Teachers

The Power We Have as Teachers

Caring for Others

    Everyone knows that teachers care; however, there are times in every teacher’s career when caring gets hidden under the piles of work and long lists of responsibilities. At these times, a normally cheerful, compassionate, empathetic, tolerant teacher may appear angry, frustrated, or uninterested. When a teacher’s sense of caring diminishes, so does respect—for self, for students, and, in return, from students. At these times, you need to “re work” your personal strengths. Cheerfulness: If teachers show cheerful faces and attitudes, even if that’s not how they are feeling, students will do the same and classes will go more smoothly. People like to be around cheerful people, and teachers who acquire the trait benefit from more energy, good health, serenity, and students with positive attitudes.

Active Compassion: Active compassion is a combination of friendship, loving kindness, understanding, and wisdom that comes from understanding that others “suffer.” A compassionate teacher is committed to taking action to better the lot of others and teaches from the heart. The sincere caring for the well-being of others may well be one of the most important qualities of a successful educator.

Empathy: In this fast-paced world of technology, empathy is one powerful trait that teachers have over computers. The showing of genuine, sensitive understanding of the situation of another person, it is necessary to effective teaching. It constitutes the willingness and ability of teachers to put themselves in the shoes of their students and it should always precede the giving of advice.

Tolerance: Tolerance is the ability to see students and peers as they really are and to treat all with respect. It reflects an understanding that stereotyping, scapegoating, or treating anyone unfairly affects the learning, growth, and self-respect of everyone. Tolerance, which helps to establish rapport, enables the teacher to reach and teach all students. It brings a sense of inner peace, more in-class successes, and a greater diversity of student responses.

Respect: Teachers know they should “respect their students if they expect respect in return.” But how does one show respect? Is it something sensed or demonstrated visibly? We recognize its importance—anyone who has not been given it can tell you—and it behoves us to strive to teach with it. More respect, happiness, personal confidence, and improved student behaviour will come to us. Treating others with respect is an indication of caring, and that is what good teaching is all about.