We all make mistakes as teachers in TEFL. Some of these can seem innocent and inconsequential, but they can actually do a lot of damage to our relationships with our students. And, to be honest, I’ve made my fair of mistakes over the years and both my students and I suffered for that.
In this video I look at a common mistake that many teachers make – they don’t get themselves ready before getting their students’ attention to give instructions or start presenting. Instead, they jump right in before arranging their materials and mentally preparing. Then, mid-sentence, they realize they’ve forgotten something. They pause and rush to their desk to find whatever it is that they need. All the while their students uncomfortably wait and watch.
In this video I explain why this causes problems for teachers. In essence, it trains students to stop paying attention to their teacher. Their good behavior isn’t rewarded with new, interesting information or a fun activity. Instead, they’re forced to sit in awkward silence as they watch their teacher hunt around at the front of class looking for something.
If we do this once or twice in a long while, it’s not a huge problem. However, if it becomes a habit and students see this every lesson or every week it can be. Students learn that their teacher doesn’t respect their time and attention. They also learn that they’re likely wasting their effort every time the teacher calls for their attention.
Related Post: Get Ready
After looking at the problem, I give five tips for how to improve your performance. These include; No Excuses, Take Notes, Pack Everything Together, Keep a Checklist, & Give Yourself Time to Prepare.
If you’re finding it harder and harder to get your students’ attention, take a few minutes and watch the video. Then, let me know your thoughts in the comments section. Thanks for watching!
