Expectation and Reality by August

Expectation and Reality by August - January 2015 Scholarship Essay

When teachers instruct students, they often think to everything they find to be important. However, it can be problematic when teachers forget that their students may not be nearly as qualified in the particular field. For this reason, many students are drawn to younger teachers who may have finished their own education recently, and still remember what it was like to learn this information for the first time.

My advice to teachers that would like to help me learn is this: I am not an expert in this area as you are, so please remember your initial ignorance when you were first taught, and realize that, though I am motivated to learn, I am not so far advanced in this subject matter as to understand everything the first time it is spoken to me in lecture.

How can this advice be followed? Obviously, every student is different, but a few general ideas can be employed in these regards. First, always use multiple examples. Demonstration is key to helping students work out problems on their own, and should be explained every time through, so as to acclimate one's students. Second, always accept questions. Many students are too modest or scared to ask questions, but asking for answers should never be discouraged. Lastly, always exhibit your office time to speak with students one on one, so that you can gauge how well a sample of the class may be coping with material.

Expect moderately, and reality may reward for your efforts.