Principles of Effective Teaching
Effective teaching involves a range of principles that facilitate student learning and achievement. Here are some of the most important principles of effective teaching, along with examples: Clear learning objectives: Teachers should have clear learning objectives for their students. This helps students understand what they need to achieve and what they will be assessed on. For example, suppose a teacher is teaching a math lesson. In that case, the learning objective might be for students to be able to solve a specific type of problem using a particular formula. Active engagement: Effective teaching involves the active engagement of students in the learning process. This can be achieved through various activities such as class discussions, group work, or individual assignments. For example, students might be asked to conduct experiments or solve real-world problems in a science class. Differentiated instruction: Teachers should use differentiated instruction to cater to the diverse learning needs of their students. For example, a teacher might provide different learning materials, assignments or assessments based on the students’ abilities or interests. Use of technology: Teachers can use technology to support effective teaching. For example, they can use online resources, interactive whiteboards, or educational software to engage students and enhance their learning. Regular assessment: Effective teaching involves regular assessment of student learning to identify areas that need improvement. Teachers can use various forms of assessments such as quizzes, tests, and projects to evaluate student learning. Feedback and reflection: Teachers should provide students with feedback on their progress and help them reflect on their learning. For example, a teacher might give feedback on a student’s essay or provide suggestions on how to improve their performance in a particular subject. Positive classroom environment: Effective teaching requires a positive classroom environment that fosters learning and growth. Teachers can create a positive classroom environment by fostering positive relationships with their students, promoting a culture of respect and inclusivity, and encouraging a growth mindset.
Moreover, According to Walls (1999), student learning is better, faster, and/or more long-lasting when teachers play the following four principles: 1) Outcomes The outcomes enable students to focus their attention on clear learning goals. These outcomes inform students of where they are going and how they will get there. Outcomes also provide the teacher a framework for designing and delivering the course content. Outcomes enable teachers to assess student learning as a measure of their own instructional effectiveness. 2) Clarity Effective teachers provide explanations and give details of the course concepts and content. If students DO NOT LEARN, it means the methods of delivery may lack the required degree of clarity. So the teacher should make the message clear from alternate perspectives to alternate senses. The effective instructional practice of the teacher should afford students the opportunity to make connections between the new material and the concepts that they have already been learned.
3) Engagement
This principle suggests that students learn by doing. Teachers must create an educational environment that allows students to practice every concept they are learning. Effective teachers use those instructional strategies that engage students throughout the lesson.
4) Enthusiasm
The principle of a high level of enthusiasm reflects a teacher's professional competence and confidence, teacher subject matter knowledge, and instructional experience. Teachers establish a positive learning environment and show their enthusiasm for the subject matter. They use students’ names, reinforce student participation during class, and keep moving among the students. By following these principles of effective teaching, teachers can create an engaging and supportive learning environment that helps their students succeed.
