Essential Elements of Teaching

Don’t be a flight attendant kind of teacher, I cautioned teacher candidates when we discussed effective teaching practices. I haven’t anything against flight attendants; they brought me peanuts and once a blanket. They chuckled remembering the precise and prescribed gestures practiced by well-meaning attendants pointing out the rear, side and front exits; how to first slip on your own air bag before adjusting it for others; and even how to secure your seat belt.

Look around this imaginary cabin, what are fellow passengers doing during the necessary, but tedious remarks? We all acknowledged that few passengers listened to the robotic instructions. There is, however, the woman in the dark suit updating her daily planner. The teen in the hoodie texted his girlfriend that he just kissed goodbye. Others flipped through magazines, and one tired soul dozed off. Granted, some passengers listen attentively. They followed along in the flyer, even checking under the seats for the inflatable cushion. Truth be told, I’m that passenger. Preparedness is important, but that’s not all.  I identified with whomever is standing and gesturing, so I smile and nod and check out where the nearest exit is.

None of the future educators wanted to fall into the trap of teaching in such an automatic fashion. A lively discussion ensued about favorite teachers. I filled the board with qualities students admired in beloved teachers. They are smart, knowledgeable, creative, sensitive, caring, humorous and all-seeing. They are saints. Much is written about teacher effectiveness and the students’ generated list of desirable qualities of great teachers matched the research.

It is daunting to live up to even the partial list of qualities. What else should be added? One or two suggested that great teachers are articulate and they have talents and interests beyond the classroom. All true, but perhaps my story may shine a light on other aspects.

Long ago in China, two friends made beautiful music together.  The talented musician played his harp with great artistry.  His friend listened with the ear of his heart. When the harpist sang and played about the mountains, the listener responded, “I can see the majestic mountains.” When the harpist sang and played music about the river, the listener responded, “I can hear the running stream.” One day, the one who listened with the ear of his heart died. Without his friend, the harpist was no longer able to produce his beautiful music.

The essential lesson is we aught not ignore the symbiotic relationship among students and teacher?