Authentic Teaching

Dr. Cathy Coker

I like this quote because we are so different. Every teacher is different from each other. To me this is a good example of what authentic teaching is all about.

Even though we are given manuscripts to use as content materials for instruction we still have our personalities to content with. Authentic teaching is the application of your own real or genuine character traits and mannerisms when you connect what needs to be taught, with your personality traits. I love to tell jokes, sing, and make funny faces when I like what I am talking about. Manuscripts can not give me those special little features I add to my lessons.

do what comes naturally, just teach. So why would you stifle your personality when you are in the classroom?

I am going out on a limb here, but when I look at the scripts in my Amplify and Eureka packets, I safely File 13 them and then do what I do best, I teach! I use my own words and my own strategies. My own hand gestures, my own facial features, my unique noises that make my students laugh and connect with me, and other methods that I have in my plethora of knowledge that I have accumulated throughout the decades that I have been in public and higher ed. classrooms. Don’t try to departmentalize your teaching methods, just

When students look at the teacher, they see a genuine reflection of that teacher’s personal identity. Authenticity here finds expression in consistency between values and actions. Being true in this sense means not being defined by others but using self-knowledge to establish one’s own identity, regardless of how well or poorly it fits with the expectations of others. Authenticity extends beyond the individual. It is other directed as well. In the case of teachers, it is caring about students and wanting them to flourish.

“Children learn from who you are than what you teach”, author unknown. It’s hardly an exaggeration to say now. Teachers be true, be honest, and be real. That’s all you can be. Let me remind you no one can replace you. You are Unique and One of a Kind. I’ll be so honored to be your Valentine.

Send me a Valentine note to cokercathy70@yahoo. com I’d love to hear from you.

Designers: Rivette Pena

Stephane Bowker

Contributing Photographers and Stock Libraries: Adobe Stock

Unsplash

Andy Dominguez

Advertisements: Dr. Cathy Coker

Marketing: Alicia Grace

Thank you to Stephane Bowker at Working for providing tailored training for the layout of Teachers Making a Difference.