It is important for a Teacher to have effective communication skills in order to model the appropriate behavior in society, properly communicate the goals and objectives of the lessons they are teaching, and evaluate and develop their students educationally, effectively communicate with other staff members and parents.
Communication is one of the most important tools a teacher uses to effectively teach their students. As a teacher, you are one of the primary adults in a students’ life and it is up to you to model the appropriate behaviors in order to make your lessons worthwhile. You are the role model for these adolescents. Just as the author of our class reading, D'O'Brian, states in the title, “How you say it does matter”. In one of his opening statements, he makes the remark, "You don't have to be another Shakespeare to get your point across. To write or speak especially well takes practice, but to write or speak competently just requires an awareness of a few essentials." (D'O'Brian, 1994)
As a teacher, you need a heightened sense of awareness in your communication skills. You need to properly communicate your point across to a group of children who are beginning to develop their listening and awareness skills. "To do that, you need clear, straightforward words convey ideas more powerfully than stuffy, complicated phrases." (Stein, 1999) With attention span's wearing thing, honing in on their attention can be difficult; however it is necessary and important for a teacher to master this in order to be successful in educating their students, who each have their own individual ways of comprehension. After reading the article "Be Prepared" by Lauer, I realized that teacher's are also responsible for the preparation. You need to ensure that your lesson effectively communicates things visually, aurally, and kinesthetically. Being prepared and rehearsing can not only help you develop your points clearly and precisely, but can help to ensure understanding for all types of learning profiles. A teacher is a leader in the classroom and shapes individuals in society. (Lauer, 2002)
Another important aspect of communication within a teacher's career is communication between other faculty and parents. Being clear, precise, and to the point is the most effective method in communicating your thoughts. A way this can be done through faculty meetings by preparing your agenda and with Parents during Parent/Teacher Conferences or letter's home explaining the current lessons. Ultimately, it is the teacher's responsibility to ensure effective communication with the student, faculty member, or parent. Without communication, it would be impossible to perform as a teacher.
In conclusion, the teaching profession is made up of individuals who have mastered the art of communicating while evaluating progress through verbal and non-verbal mannerisms. In my opinion, communication in the teaching profession is the single most important aspect and tool for education. When used correctly, the various mediums of communication in today's society assist to complete the daily functions and responsibilities of a teacher. Teachers do this flawlessly, even when communicating with other staff members or parents to ensure that the success of the child academically is met.
Sources
D'O'Brian, J. (1994, April). How you say it does make a difference. Supervisory Management, 39(4), 10.
Lauer, C. S. (2002, February 11). Be prepared. Modern Healthcare, 32(6), 26.
Stein, J. (1999, November/December). Writing clearly and effectively: How to keep the reader's attention. The Secured Lender, 55(7), 98-104.