Term 3 Week 3: Reflective Focus

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Four timeless elements that can enhance "the relating to the others competency" through learning relationships.

1. Consistent Communication


Consistent communication is the most vital element as it serves to create a connection between the two. A teacher who understands the problems of his or her students and then shapes his or her teaching style in order to interact better with the student can see success, but this takes not simply observation, but communication. The more the teacher communicates well, the higher is the chance of fast and effective learning at the student's end.


2. An Emotionally-Safe Learning Space


Creating an open learning environment where different opinions are equally respected and where there is no fear of ridicule from either one’s peers or the teacher is crucial for building good student teacher relationships. Students need to feel safe when asking questions, safe in the belief that they won’t be taunted or criticized and that their question or comment will be answered with patience and respect.


3. Mutual Respect, Trust, & Feedback


Mutual respect and trust are at the foundation of any lasting relationship. Student-teacher interaction that is based merely on academic progress or behaviour management creates inhibitions within a student and stifles true relationship-building. Those teachers that show respect towards their students and a keenness to help them through their difficulties become the object of respect themselves and trigger a drive among students to learn and make their teachers proud. Recognising progress, in any way will lead to motivating a student further and accomplishing more.


4. True Equity


Disparity in learning is a barrier to academic performance. Whether you're talking about technology access, access to literature, or related socioeconomic trends, equity matters. Creating favourites and focusing on those individuals can create resentment among others who feel marginalized and left out. Focusing equally on all students in class will no doubt lead to a powerful respectful relationships for everyone.

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