Music 23241
September 15, 2011
This being the last article that I have read on the qualities of being a great teacher. Mark Leonard makes a lot of similar statements to the ones being made by other authors. Leonard mentions that you should set limits for your ensemble, get to know your students, deal with parents appropriately, delegate authority among parents or students, create a concrete and realistic plan, and be prepared for anything. He also makes a few side points about being patient with students, admitting mistakes you make, and asking for advice from people who have been through the same sort of situation before. One of the most important quotes that hit home for me was "Students want to be a part of a dynamic program where something is always happening and getting better" (Kantorski 14).
Leonard mentions in his article that in his early years that he has issues not so much setting standards for himself but for others. I begin to think of my personality and I honestly feel that i would have the same issue. As teachers we have to be so aware of how students think and how they handle work. But it is not always completely clear. Delegating authority i one of the other points that Leonard mentions that can definitely not be overlooked. From the knowledge base and observations I have it is very clear as to why as a music teacher that we can not handle everything. So delegating even minute things such as taking attendance can relieve stress.
I believe in what Leonard has to say in his article. Especially when he talks about being prepared and having a plan. Without that programs cease to run efficiently (or at all). The situations that he includes in his articles make it evident that the experience does not lie and what he says is time tested. As I begin to be honest with myself I realize that I have much to think about and improve on as I grow as an educator. I hope that I will remember all of the points that Leonard makes in this article.
More great points and arguments. Well said!
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