Blog Series: Building YOUR Puzzle to Teaching – Expect Greatness
Nonkululeko Maringa
December 18, 2024

As a pre-service teacher, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the challenges and responsibilities that come with teaching. However, it’s important to remember that teaching is a rewarding and fulfilling profession and that you have the power to make a positive impact on the lives of your learners.

As you prepare to enter the classroom, one of the most important things you can do for your learners is to expect greatness from them. When you expect greatness, you empower your learners to reach their full potential.

The first step in expecting greatness is believing in your learners’ abilities. You should realise that every learner has unique strengths and talents. Have confidence in all of your learners. Do not make assumptions about what any learner can or cannot do based on their background or past performance. Every child has potential and your positive expectation can help unlock it.

Set clear and challenging goals. Work with learners to establish measurable goals that push them just outside of their comfort zone. Goals should be specific, encourage improvement over time and focus on mastery of skills rather than performance comparisons to peers.

Acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of your learners. Highlight their accomplishments, both big and small. This will boost their confidence, motivate them to continue striving for excellence and create a sense of pride in their work.

In a nutshell, expecting greatness from your learners is not about setting unrealistic expectations or pressuring them to perform. Instead, it’s about providing a supportive and challenging environment that encourages them to reach their full potential. By believing in their abilities, setting high standards and fostering a positive classroom culture, you will empower your learners to become lifelong learners and achieve success beyond the classroom.

 

By: Victor Chakawanei

ECE Lecturer