As a teacher, it is important to connect with your students. Many teachers do this well, while some have a style of lecturing that is dull and lacks engagement. It can be challenging to hold the students’ interest throughout the class, but by creating rapport in the classroom, it will be easier to get students to participate.
- Constructive Criticism
There are three steps to constructive criticism. Start with positive feedback. Follow up with an honest remark, and then finish with another positive comment. This will get the students’ attention and allow them to hear your feedback and walk away feeling good about your conversation.
- Be True to Yourself
Successful teachers are true to themselves. They enjoy interacting with students, and they know how to make good connections. They aren’t afraid to handle an uncomfortable situation and they love sharing with the students.
- Learn What Interests Your Students
The best way to connect with students is by knowing them and learning what their hobbies and passions are. You can create activities that connect with their hobbies to help them better engage. If you watch a film with the class, give the students an opportunity to talk about what they liked and didn’t like, and get them to relate it to their own experiences.
- Go to Extracurricular Events
Your students are likely to be involved in extracurricular activities outside of class, and you can attend them to build a rapport. When they see you outside of class, they will develop a more meaningful relationship with you that will carry over to the classroom.
- Show Respect
If you want to receive respect, you need to give respect. When you are respectful of your students, they will be more motivated and try harder in class. You can start by saying hello and goodbye to the students as they come and go from the classroom. Make sure that you teach the students to respect each other as well.
- Teach Life Lessons
Make sure that you include life lessons into your teaching. It is a valuable tool, and it helps children develop compassion and empathy. You can also make time for students to share their feelings and talk about life lessons they have learned.
- Always Ask Students What They Are Thinking
Even if you think you know what is going on, make sure that you ask your students what they are thinking. Sometimes, they might surprise you, and they will feel that you respect them.