Learner Voice: what makes a brilliant teacher?
Teaching and learning - listening to the learner voice
Lee Davies, IfL's deputy chief executive was interviewed by Policy Review TV about teaching and learning. Here Lee highlights the importance of hearing what learners' say and taking action to ensure that teachers and trainers are better placed to respond to their needs, including harnessing the technology that is important to learners. Watch the interview below.
Have you taken action in response to the needs of your learners? Tell us how, share your views on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn, or share teaching and learning resources on SlideShare.
Partnering with learner bodies
As part of our strategic aim to promote the professional status of teachers and trainers, IfL has collaborated with national organisations representing learners to develop a model of the ideal teacher and trainer.
By talking to students representatives of the National Learner Panel (NLP) and the National Union of Students (NUS), IfL are gaining insight into learner views of the attributes and skills a brilliant teacher.
Attributes of a brilliant teacher
- Knowledge – both of the subject and the learner, the experience of learning providers is of real importance to students. This applied not only to teaching practice but also keeping up-to-date with their field of expertise.
Knowledge of ICT and technology was mentioned frequently as was a desire to see teachers and trainers engage in their own continuing professional development (CPD).
“I always felt that my tutor was up to date with her own subject and with changes in education, and I trusted what she told me.”
- Professionalism – well-presented and appropriate for a person of authority, learners felt that the status of their learning providers to be of real importance. This was expressed through a range of attributes from personal appearance through to a flexible approach and time management skills.
“Teachers have to maintain professional boundaries and show commitment by being ready to teach as soon as their learners arrive.”
- Communication and support – present their lesson skilfully and engagingly. Creativity and enthusiasm are attributes in a teacher that are valued highly by students. Passion for subject seems to be contagious and creative and innovative approach to teaching is really appreciated.
“My teacher is wonderful. She uses her life experiences to inspire us. I think that having that kind of teacher helps me be passionate about learning and having goals.”
This is just the start of our work in this area. What do you think? What do your students think? Having these discussions with students and colleagues is a valuable part of your continuing professional development (CPD).
We invite your input, thoughts and recommendations on what you believe to be the qualities of a brilliant teacher. Contact us at communications@ifl.ac.uk
We at IfL are extemely interested in what you the member, student and other stakeholders have to say, so please continue to add your thoughts and input. To view our members current thoughts please click here.
