What do you think is the hardest job in the world? We’re sure you’ll get a different answer depending on who you ask, but, in truth, there is no wrong answer. Each and every career has its challenges, but something that can really make a difference is having the right attitude. This is especially true for Early Childhood Development (ECD) teachers.
Contributing to classroom effectiveness
It may not be something you’ve thought about before, but the attitude of a teacher has been proven to have a direct correlation to their effectiveness in a learning environment. Also, learners can benefit from being exposed to a positive attitude as it helps create a supportive and engaging environment and effects their progress and success and builds their confidence.
To the teachers: do you remember meeting that special teacher and how they inspired you to become an educator yourself? With the right attitude, you can be that special teacher for the next generation.
The five attitudes of effective teachers
According to a study done by Bonni Gourneau at the University of North Dakota in 2005, there are specifically five attitudes that make for effective teachers:
- Caring and Kindness
Caring for another stirs emotions and feelings. Acts of kindness, such as patience or listening, make the world a happier place and boosts enthusiasm, optimism and feelings of control in children. On the other hand, unkindness causes discomfort, sadness and rebelliousness. - Sharing Responsibility
When a teacher shares responsibility with the learners, a relationship of closeness and acceptance develops. It is important to allow children a certain level of freedom within the classroom community, for example, choosing between activities during play time. - Sensitive to Diversity
Teachers with attitudes of sensitivity, acceptance and encouragement understand their young learners without analysing or judging them. Complementing each child in front of the others makes them feel valued, special and important. - Practicing Individualised Education
It is critical that meaningful learning opportunities are provided for all children. Teachers with this attitude help young learners to succeed in their learning experiences. They believe every child can and will learn and will always find a way to push children to be the best version of themselves. This attitude encourages self-confidence and self-esteem in learners. - Encouraging Creativity
Teachers who listen to the learners’ ideas and suggestions encourage imagination and recognise that this is part of innovation and problem solving. Learners are motivated to try new things and learn to have a curious mindset. Teachers with this attitude, consider the learners’ interests, skills, and needs.
A positive teacher, a positive learner
Having the right attitude is the easiest way to see the biggest improvement in performance, for both the teacher and the learner.
Fostering a positive attitude can bolster general positivity, enhance daily performance and alleviate stress in teachers. For learners, a teacher with a positive attitude can encourage in them a better self-image, confidence, enthusiasm and a love for life-long learning.
There truly is no understating the power a teacher with a positive attitude can have on a group of young learners. You’ve got this teachers!
“Teachers have three loves: love of learning, love of learners and the love of bringing the first two loves together.” –Scott Hayden
