MY TEACHING METAPHOR

Different methods or approaches have enriched the foreign and second language field and have helped teachers understand the teaching and learning processes in and out of classes.  Consequently, some teachers feel comfortable by following one single method which most of the time do not “match” with the learning context and as a result they become possible Passive Technicians.

Nevertheless, I have decided to apply different approaches according to the learning situations. As well as the adjustment or modification of others. That is why I tend to be creative and open-minded to tackle the classroom reality.

The first thing I feel is necessary when teaching English is “Humor”. Since the first moment you get into the classroom till the last second of class. Of course we are human beings and sometimes we are not in the mood. However, I consider this strategy must be applied as many times as you can. I have noticed students are more connected to the class when I apply humor in the explanations of the topic, when I give examples, start a speaking, reading or writing exercise. As a consequence, the class environment changes and the teaching and learning process improve.

Second, I like student-centered classes, because I love when my students are active and participate to enrich the class. I do not want my students to be passive and quiet. I do not want “Good pets” that imitate or please their “owners”. Therefore, I consider my students must be people that are able to analyze, reflect and propose in their Efl learning process.

Norton (1997) suggests that “a language serves to express perceptions of the world; that it is through language that values, desires and knowledge are conveyed”. This means, l2 learners must have the opportunity to reflect on their social environment and have spaces to build their own identities and ideologies that endorse the improvement of their target language using it in real life.

Hence, my third pillar is to teach English as a foreign language for a real purpose. So that I wish my students could express their feelings and interact socially using the target language. In this way, students have opportunities to reflect on their community problems and necessities as Fagan (2008) asserts “learning occurs through social interaction with others within specific contexts and communities”.  I’m aware of the difficulties for obtaining quick outcomes, but this is a process where we as teachers must be patient and persistent.

Fourth, my class must be surrounded by moral principles. Values such as respect, responsibility, love, cooperation and honesty are practiced in every single class. As Johnston (2003) claims “Language teaching and learning are shot through with values, and that language teaching is a profoundly value-laden activity” (p4). My students will never receive a bad treatment and I hope to receive the same treatment. This is helpful because I have a better classroom management and atmosphere.

Fifth, I like to listen to my students and attempt to support them when they have any problem. I try to advise them but correct them as well.

Finally, I try to put in my students shoes, so that I spend time thinking about their interests and necessities to make them enjoy the English class. Therefore, I use strategies such as rearranging the class setting, playing games, singing modern songs, using technology and so on.

I know I’m a good teacher and love my profession but I still need to change and improve my reflection on my teaching practice. Thus I’m starting my way to excellence!