1B: Demonstrating Knowledge of Students
This component focuses on knowing the students; while it is important to know the content and how to teach, understanding the strengths, weaknesses, culture, interests, and development of each student is necessary. Being an educator, it is important to get to know each student individually. Each student is at a different stage, and needs guidance directed towards their specific need, so getting closer to them will help gather information on how, as a teacher, one can help the student. It is important to develop a strong teacher student relationship in order to figure out what skills they need to work on, as well as how to work on them. Teachers must also engage their learners; knowing their interests will help find something they like to do, which can then be integrated in the lesson. Getting to know them will also gain respect, allowing teachers to encourage students to participate in the community.
Though this information, teachers learn of each students' developmental stages which include: emotional, social, and physical. The knowledge of this information will help the teacher plan, so the student can become engaged and learn in a positive atmosphere. What will also help in engaging students, is knowing the learning process. This means teachers will know each individual's learning styles. There is also the factor of special needs; a teacher must understand a child with special needs, differentiating the lesson plan for those students.
Though this information, teachers learn of each students' developmental stages which include: emotional, social, and physical. The knowledge of this information will help the teacher plan, so the student can become engaged and learn in a positive atmosphere. What will also help in engaging students, is knowing the learning process. This means teachers will know each individual's learning styles. There is also the factor of special needs; a teacher must understand a child with special needs, differentiating the lesson plan for those students.
Elements:
- Knowledge of Child and Adolescent Development
- Knowledge of the Learning Process
- Knowledge of Students' Skills, Knowledge, & Language Proficiency
- Knowledge of Students' Interests and Cultural Heritage
- Knowledge of Students' Special Needs
Examples of Artifacts:
Sharing Days:
In a classroom, having students bring in something from home can tell a teacher a lot about that student. They can see what the student likes to do, maybe some heritage, or culture. By having them explain their item, it opens up opportunities to learn more about the student's life. |
Surveys:
With surveys, teachers gain information about their students. They can ask about prior knowledge as well as interests and hobbies to get to know them better. |
Family Info Sheets:
Knowing things about the family is important in seeing if parents are divorced, dating, or married. This will help show the teacher what kind of family dynamic the child is in which can influence his/her learning. |
Danielson, C. (2007). Enhancing professional practice a framework for teaching (2nd ed.). Alexandria, Va.: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.