SEASONED TEACHERS: GEMS OF EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION

EDNAR RIVERA CORPUZ

While it is indisputable and undebatable that the educational system has met paradigm of shift and changes throughout centuries, question about the validity of teaching strategies, classroom management, assessment and curriculum content are among the fascinating topics. If one is being asked as to “what type of teacher are you?” numerous answer may stir along the conversation: the best, the millennials, the busy bee, the actor, the influencer. But, has anyone would admit and chose being a seasoned one?

While it is interesting to note and study the impact of change and modification in the educational realm brought about by modernization and globalization; time tested methodologies, strategies, and management remain to be perplexed ideas to investigate. Its complexities lies on a multidimensionality of the issues which can only be facilitated and managed by the seasoned and erudite in education. Distinguishing the novice from the seasoned teachers in terms of carrying and facilitating class has been a fascinating theme to consider.

Akbari and Yazdanmehr (2014) concluded that the best criteria for a seasoned teacher lies in their expertise, a multitude of diverse, incomprehensive and, in some cases, unquestionable attributes which in some cases are mostly subjectively measured and ascribed. Nevertheless, these qualifications and comparison of the novice and can be recognized from two dimensions: the cognitive/ perceptual attributes and the performance-based dimensions.

Classroom management is also part and parcel of educational realm, ErsozluandCayci (2016) on their study noted that neophyte teachers, and including those who are more experienced are often being challenged and confronted in creating and maintaining a well-managed classroom where students can learn. On the other hand, experienced and seasoned teachers see the establishment of the classroom management as one of the most important objectives and activities that should be prioritized and established on the very first week of the academic year (Unal&Unal, 2012).

The outstanding characteristics of a well-managed class facilitated by an expert and seasoned teachers were summarized by Sanford, Emmer and Clements (1983) in the following manner: 1) Expert and seasoned teachers have high levels of student involvement with work, especially with academic, teacher-led instruction; 2)Students know what is expected of them and are generally pretty successful; 3) There is relatively little wasted time, confusion and disruption; and 4)The climate of the room is work-oriented but relaxed and pleasant.

In conclusion, the perennial adage is still true that they may be old but certainly gold in any educational institution. Beneath those silver hairs, a vast wisdom can be mined perfected and intertwined with their burning passion, time, experiences, and genuine dedications towards their chosen craft. Thus, our utmost respect must be given to these precious trinket of society.

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The author is Secondary School Teacher I at Rafael Lazatin Memorial High School