POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT
MELINDA B. DE LAZO
A teacher’s connection with her students is based on how she communicates with them. She may express her thoughts, feelings and experiences inside the class – and how the students accept her words is an important part of the class community.
Some students may be aloof, but this does not mean that they do not want to be heard or understood. They do; they just don’t know how to express it. Teachers should make it a point to have both casual conversations and academic discussions with their students.
Students should be able to open up and share – and this can only happen if they trust their teacher and classmates. They only reveal their passions and dreams if they feel these have a connection with what they are learning in class. Teachers should support students so they can be able to express themselves clearly and accurately.
Giving students their own voice is about inspiring and empowering them to speak. With practice, encouragement, and assistance, students can share i d eas.
Teachers are not the only ones who should watch or measure their words. Using the right words – the right choice – can make or break someone. Because being articulate is an important skill, then this should be fostered in cl ass.
Educators can point out to the students the effects that words - both spoken and written- have. They can heal or hurt, soothe or enrage; clearly explain or further confuse; change minds or harden hearts; bridge divides or cement separation; enthrall or bore, charm or repel; and move people to action or to tears.
Striving to measure our words when speaking with students will make all the difference in our relationships with them. With words well chosen, teachers can guide, congratulate students on their achievements, and encourage them when they come up short.
There are several ways we can improve our communication with students and strengthen our connections with them.
— oOo—
The author is Teacher I at Dela Paz Norte Elementary School
The Beginning.
I started my journey to teaching and learning right after graduation. That was in the year 2002. I had the chance to teach at Philippine Academy of SAKYA, Santa Cruz, Manila. After two years of Hard work. I landed a job at Saint Mary’s Academy of Guagua Pampanga. I became a speech teacher and a school paper adviser. I realized how I grew little by little.
Fulfillment.
In 2009, I became a public school teacher at Pampanga High School. I got exposed to different kinds of students – some were good and some were at their worst. Hence, it was only then when I realized that I was touching the lives of my students. With the Enduring understanding that I was able to share them, I told myself – I can feel it!
Best .
Isn’t it wonderful that inspite the obstacles, problems and trials created both by man and nature, I stood still and continue giving my best to help produce well-rounded individuals?
An old adage says- it takes a lot of people to make a world! The least are those who do not care what happens. Next, are just those people who make things happen but the best people are those who influence. 2018 is the year I am excited for. Having taught for nine years at Pampanga High School opened greatest opportunity for me to grow intellectually, spiritually, socially etc. A door was opened for me to become a journalism teacher. For pioneer students under the special program for journalism (SPJ). A window was extended when I was assigned to be the adviser of “Pampangan”, the official school paper of Pampanga High School. I can recall clearly the words of my father- “What will happen to your future?” Confidently, I answer- A bright future awaits my students! Their success is mine.
— oOo—
The author is Teacher II at Pampanga High School