Sunday, May 7, 2023 | 2 a.m.
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Teaching can be like coaching a sports team. Data-driven best practices can provide a framework for effective teaching, but truly great teachers also successfully manage the needs, expectations and emotions of students who are competing for time and attention and whose lives outside the classroom may affect their performance inside the classroom.
One of the most striking and difficult-to-measure similarities is the role of momentum in both sports and teaching. Just as a sports team can seize control of a game with a single clutch play, a teacher can turn the tide of a lesson with a single insightful comment or engaging activity. When things are going well, momentum can build quickly, leading to a virtuous cycle of engagement, curiosity and learning. However, when things go off the rails, it can be difficult to regain that momentum.
In these moments, it’s important to remember that we should never bet against human potential and the human heart. Just as an athlete can dig deep and find a reserve of strength and determination, students can also surprise us with their resilience and capacity for growth. As teachers, it’s our job to cultivate that potential and keep the momentum moving forward, no matter what challenges we may face along the way.
While every student and situation is different, three strategies stand out as being particularly effective at creating and sustaining momentum in the classroom and in any other scenario where a teacher is trying to impart knowledge to a student.
Create a positive and supportive learning environment
Students are most likely to engage and participate in class when they feel valued, respected and supported. Teachers can create a positive and supportive classroom environment by building relationships with their students, listening to their concerns and providing constructive feedback. Just as a sports team can rally from a deficit to win a game, a student can overcome a perceived barrier or obstacle to succeed in school. With the right support and encouragement, students can achieve anything to which they set their minds. Teachers have a responsibility to our students to provide that scaffolded support and encouragement, and to help them reach their full potential.
Use varied and engaging teaching strategies
One of the biggest challenges teachers face is keeping their students engaged and interested in the lesson. To overcome this challenge, teachers should use varied and engaging teaching strategies that cater to different student learning preferences. This includes hands-on activities, group work, multimedia presentations and games. Be passionate about the subject matter. When teachers are passionate about what they teach, their enthusiasm is contagious and can inspire students to learn more.
Provide timely and constructive feedback
Feedback is a critical component of the learning process, as it helps students understand what they’re doing well and the opportunities that exist for improvement. Students need timely and constructive feedback that is specific, actionable, and focuses on the learning objectives. This feedback should be given regularly, both during and after the lesson, to keep students motivated and on track. Teachers also benefit from feedback — from their students, their colleagues and their administrators. Feedback can assist teachers in identifying areas where they can better support students and make changes to their teaching methods.
In teaching, like in sports, all it takes is one play to turn the tide of a game. With dedication, perseverance and a willingness to try new approaches, teachers can make a positive difference in the lives of their students both inside and outside of the classroom, helping them achieve success in their academic and personal lives.
Jen Loescher is a regional math coach and trainer at Southern Nevada Regional Professional Development Program, supporting middle-school math teachers. She is a Teach Plus Nevada senior policy fellow.
