Elements of Master Teaching

William BuskistJason SikorskiTanya BuckleyBryan K. Saville

Auburn University

So what are they?

Books say:

• Knowledge

• Personality

• Classroom Management Skills

Writings of Master Teachers say:

PassionateHigh expectationsHumorousKnowledgeableModels critical thinkingPromotes cooperation

Uses active learning methodsUses common senseUses interdisciplinary approach

FlexibleGenuineGood listenerTrustingRespectful

Stress life-long learningStrong speaking skillsStrong work ethicThoughtful

22

ApproachableCreativeCurrent in fieldEstablishes rapport

Credentials of Award Winning Teachers say:

14 High standards for studentsHumanisticIntelligentKnowledgeablePopular among studentsScholarlyStrong communication skillsStrong work ethicWrite about their fields

Commitment to fieldConcern for studentsCreativeEnthusiasticGood classroom teacher

Student Evaluations say:

CaringClear

ComprehensiveEnthusiastic

Fair StimulatingUnderstanding

WarmWell organizedWell prepared

Quality vs. Behavior

Can you teach a quality like…

What behaviors indicate a quality?

Quality: Sense of HumorBehavior: Tells funny stories or

makes witty remarks in class.

Quality: Enthusiasm about TeachingBehavior: Smiles during class, prepares

interesting class activities, uses gestures and expressions of emotion to emphasize important points.

Quality: Respectful

Behavior: Does not humiliate or embarrass students, is polite (thank you, please), does not interrupt, does not talk down to students.

So here’s where you start!

Note the enthusiasm…