My Practical Theory

Each teacher has various beliefs about how students learn effectively and these beliefs and values they hold, lead them to adopt certain actions. These become a teacher’s practical theory about teaching and learning. A teacher’s belief originates from their cultural background and experiences - experiences they had while they were students and experiences they have with their students while they are teaching. So it’s safe to say that a teacher’s practical theory keeps getting refined and enhanced as they progress.

My practical theory has evolved a lot since I first started teaching. I have come from a background where learning is nothing more than just memorizing. As students we were required to memorize everything from scientific formulas to historical events with no sense of deep understanding. Teachers adopted a style of teaching where they talked and we listened. There was no concept of projects or activities in class. I was just an average student. In college I had a different experience. I was exposed to various cultures (both students and teachers) and also to various teaching styles. I enjoyed learning as I understood concepts deeper and better.

While I’ve lived in UAE all my life, I had never taught male UAE nationals before. I knew a lot about the cultural practices of UAE, but didn’t know how students in this culture learn best. Deeper understanding of this has shaped my practical theory. I realized that social intelligence is a very powerful tool in teaching in this culture.

While my practical theory is still evolving I have certain beliefs and values at this point of time that guides my teaching. I believe that a teacher carries a big responsibility in the classroom not only to disseminate knowledge but also make the students independent learners, not only to guide the students but also to challenge them, not only to have fun but also to create a serious learning atmosphere, not only to build a rapport but also to discipline when required. I believe that a teacher should instill a deeper sense of understanding in the students to make them appreciate what they are learning.

I value being organized and well prepared for a class as this reflects on my level of confidence in the material I am delivering and boosts the student’s confidence in me and in the subject they are learning.  I always go to class with well prepared and structured lessons that relate to the lessons taught before. This helps the students to connect their learning. I also keep room in my lessons for some spontaneity since the dynamics of each class is different.

Teaching for me is like baking a cake – initially you keep following the recipe by the book until you perfect it, and then you get creative and start experimenting with the ingredients to make your very own cake!!