Good morning to all
“To teach is to learn twice over.” – Joseph Joubert.
When I was a Pre-Degree student around two and a half decades ago, one of our English teachers, Mrs. Susan, gave two important pieces of advice to the class.
The first one was related to learning English. The majority of students in the class were Malayalam medium students, so going from mother tongue to English was a wonderful experience, but it was very challenging. In order to improve our language skills, the teacher advised us to buy an English Bible and read it every day. As a result, not only was my language improved but also my faith in the Lord. I am grateful for my teacher.
Second, she recommended giving tuition to other students or teaching younger siblings. Having a steady source of income throughout college days has proven more appropriate for me than the second option.
Many years later, I am astounded when I read Joseph Joubert’s golden rule of teaching-learning: “To teach is to learn twice over.” I am very satisfied and remember my teachers with deep gratitude.
Jubert, a French essayist, introduced a new two-way teaching and learning process. A teacher is a lifelong learner, which is very appropriate. Practicing by teaching others is the best way to recollect, and remember. It will remain in our memories forever.
The act of teaching is the act of learning. The process of teaching itself is a great opportunity for learning. You learn when you explain something to the class. As you elicit information from your students by asking them to share something with the class, or when you ask them to explain something to one another, you are instilling this method of learning.
Different teaching-learning methods were mentioned by educators. To impart lessons in a fruitful manner, teachers have to find out the apt method from time to time.
These are teacher-centered methods, learner-centered methods, content-focused methods and interactive/participative methods.
A teacher-centered method is one that places emphasis on the teacher, a learner-centered method is on the learner and an interactive/participatory method is on the participant.
Currently, five distinct classroom teaching styles have emerged as the primary strategies used by modern teachers. They are Authority Style, Delegate Style, Facilitator Style, Demonstrator Style, and Hybrid Style.
A teacher does not have a small or small job, but they elevate the mind and energise the character. Once you become a teacher, you remain a teacher forever. It is true that teaching leads to eternity. If you teach anywhere, whatever you teach, make sure you are doing it not out of compulsion, but with passion. This will make a difference for both the teacher and the student.
Teaching is neither a small nor a small job; it elevates the mind and energizes the character. Dorothea Dix words are apt in this context;
“The duties of a teacher are neither few nor small, but they elevate the mind and give energy to the character.”
Have a blessed day
Rev.Fr.Dr.P.S. Varghese
Principal
MGM College
Midland, Dimapur.
