GETTING TO KNOW STUDENTS BETTER

Teachers play vital roles in the school. They act as counselors, advisers, nurses, and most importantly they act as second parents. Indeed, being a second parent in the classroom is difficult because aside from the fact that teachers handle unique and diverse students, they also have to deal with the personal backgrounds of each student.

Why is it important to get to know the students well? This question oftentimes strikes every teacher in the teaching profession. But this query is always answered with a valid reason that a teacher who knows his or her students as unique individuals can help them to navigate the often confusing and anxiety-filled lives that they lead. If the teacher understood his or her learners’strengths and weaknesses as to where they most struggle and they most excel, he or she will help them succeed academically as these areas of development and difficulty may build strong bonds in preparation for a better future. Knowing your students may give them the feeling that they are valued, cared for and loved. Sometimes, it is not only important that you provide them the knowledge that they need but also the act of being valued is more appreciated. This kind of attribute will make them realize that they are accepted in the world they live in.

As a teacher, spending quality time with the students will manifest positive perception on the part of students. Talk to them, play with them, enlighten them and let them feel that they are important individuals.

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The author is Teacher III at San Francisco Elementary School, Mabalacat Ci t y