2 Teachers are agents of change in modelling sound behaviour, inspire and encourage learners

Question

to reach their full academic potential, and motivate them to strive towards being the best
person they can be.
Discuss this statement by referring to any three attitudes and personality traits of teachers.
Simultaneously demonstrate, with relevant examples, how a teacher will utilize these traits in
the everyday course of pedagogy. (10) include references
(Max 300 words)

Answer 1

Teachers play a crucial role in molding and shaping the lives of their students, not only academically but also in terms of character development. They are not just educators, but also agents of change who inspire and encourage learners to reach their full potential. Through their attitudes and personality traits, teachers can motivate students to strive towards being the best version of themselves.

One attitude that teachers should possess is empathy. By understanding and caring about their students' individual needs and circumstances, teachers can create a supportive and inclusive learning environment. For example, a teacher may notice that a student is struggling with a particular concept and takes the time to provide additional guidance and support. This empathetic approach can boost the student's confidence and encourage them to persevere, ultimately helping them reach their full academic potential.

Another important attitude is enthusiasm. When teachers are passionate about their subject matter, it can ignite a love for learning in their students. For instance, a science teacher who conducts exciting experiments or shares interesting facts about the natural world can make the subject engaging and captivating for students. This enthusiasm can inspire students to develop a genuine interest in the subject and motivate them to excel academically.

Additionally, teachers should possess patience. Each student has unique learning styles and abilities, and it is crucial for teachers to adapt their teaching methods accordingly. A patient teacher understands that every student learns at their own pace and takes the time to provide individualized support. For instance, a math teacher may use different strategies or examples to explain a concept to students who struggle with it. This patience helps students build confidence, reduces their fear of making mistakes, and encourages them to continue striving for academic success.

In conclusion, teachers have the power to influence and positively impact their students' lives by exhibiting attitudes and personality traits such as empathy, enthusiasm, and patience. By embracing these qualities, teachers can create an environment where students feel supported, inspired, and motivated. Through their everyday interactions and teaching strategies, teachers can model sound behavior, inspire students to reach their academic potential, and encourage them to become the best version of themselves.

References:
- Marzano, R. J., Marzano, J. S., & Pickering, D. J. (2003). Classroom management that works: Research‐based strategies for every teacher. Alexandria, VA: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.
- Tschannen-Moran, M., & Hoy, A. W. (2007). The differential antecedents of self-efficacy beliefs of novice and experienced teachers. Teaching and teacher education, 23(6), 944-956.