Element Four 

 

Teachers Communicate Effectively With Their Students

 

I have sought to provide a clear learning goal during each lesson that allows students to understand exactly what concept or skills they will be learning. Further, I have used a range of questioning techniques such as open and closed questions, group discussions and self-reflection to enhance student learning and to promote discussion (see Appendix F). (4.1.1, 4.1.2, 4.1.3).

 

I will endeavour to promote effective group structures during learning experiences (other than whole class) that will seek to assist student learning. I also aim to utilise ICT resources as an assistive tool within the classroom that will help to foster student motivation and interest.

 

I need to integrate specific group structures during open-ended tasks by giving each student a role within their individual group that will aid in providing a supportive learning environment whereby contribution from each student is valued and needed for successful group function.

 

I need also to liaise with my teacher mentor so that I can access the relevant ICT resources where needed. However, I must also deliberately plan learning experiences which require the use of significant ICT resources that will aid student learning for this plan to eventuate.

 

 I believe communication is a powerful tool that teachers and students employ within the classroom. Through a mixture of verbal and non-verbal communicative means teachers and students are able to send messages about what and whose knowledge is valued in the classroom. However, I feel that an effective, supportive classroom is one where students and the teacher share an understanding that knowledge is problematic and is there to be analysed, discussed and critiqued (Downing, 1995, cited in Groundwater-Smith, Ewing & le Cornu, 2003, p. 213).