Just as artists use charcoal or paints or clay to create an experience, teachers use research, best teaching practice and personal insights to craft the best learning experience for their students. I consider what I do to be an art form as well as a scientific process. I’ve developed a unique program and approach, worked hard on my craft, and I’m still learning. I always study my teaching experiences…why something worked well or what didn’t. And I always learn from my students…what helps move them forward faster in their goals, and what doesn’t.
But before you can practice your art, you have to know what you can and can’t do with your materials, and develop and strengthen your techniques. ‘Sharpen your axe’ as Abe Lincoln says. Teachers must spend time learning, growing, experimenting, testing, evaluating, and reflecting so they get stronger and smarter and more efficient–and most of all, more successful at helping students reach their goals in speaking English.
For quick tips on how to ‘sharpen your axe’, check out Peggy’s YouTube videos.