Teachers: Guiding Light of Life

It is true when it is said that – teachers leave an everlasting impact on a student’s psyche. It happened with us. Didn’t it? Don’t we remember our teachers? Definitely we do and we would continue to do so as their memories are truly imperative. Teachers were significant part of our growing up process. We tend associate our school days closely with them. Not just teachers of higher standards but even primary school teachers are quite close to our heart.

From the very beginning, when we took initial steps into school, we regarded them as figures next to our mothers, who would nurture us and take care of us like a guardian. Teachers are given place of high regard as they are educators not just of our school life but of our whole life. Their teachings are not just restricted to the syllabus or course material but every one of us might have experienced this once in our life that we must have come across teachers who managed to change our perspective and outlook towards life. Certain words that our teachers say become our life’s guidelines. Those golden words act like a map that show us directions in our difficult phases of life.

Stature of a ‘Guru’

Our Indian culture and tradition truly gives stature of a “Guru” to a teacher. Guru, which is a Sanskrit word, is regarded as someone who has great knowledge, wisdom, and authority in a certain field, and one who imparts valuable knowledge to others (his students). This transmission of teachings from a teacher to a student is termed as guru-shishya tradition in India. This relationship is considered as pure and sacred, where student receives teachings with utmost respect, commitment, devotion and obedience.

In earlier days, it was considered important to find a teacher or guru who can impart transcendental knowledge in the right manner. In Hinduism, the guru is considered as respected person with saintly qualities who enlightens the mind of his or her disciple.  One of the main epic texts known as ‘Bhagavad Gita’ signifies guru- shishya relationship. One such popular dialogue in the battlefield between Lord Krishna (guru) and  (shishya) Arjuna, a Kshatriya prince outlines many ideals of Hinduism in this regard.  Here, Krishna narrates to Arjuna of the importance of finding a guru. Their relationship is considered an ideal one of Guru-Shishya.

Several saints and poets in India have expressed great views about the relationship between Guru and God.

Tips for Teaching on the First Day of Class

It’s perfectly natural to have some first day nerves. You needn’t worry, if you feel slightly apprehensive and anxious. For teachers it is important to develop good rapport with students and first day impressions plays a crucial role.

Do Research

Try and get as much information as possible about the new school, college or university. Understand its culture, ethos and policies etc. Also, it is vital to know about your job profile as teacher. More importantly, you should be well thorough with the subject you are teaching.

Get To Know Staff
 
You are beginning with a new job, it is important to have an introductory meeting with your team. Getting to know your staff and other teachers in the school and it will make you feel more comfortable. 

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You will not be expected to know everything about your new job. Try and make your support network. Ask other teachers for advice (they’ll be pleased to know that you value their opinions).

First Day Preparations:

No matter what, arrive early: Come early and prepare yourself for the first day. Plan in advance what you will do, so that you are able to have good connection with students in the first meeting. Also, it will make students will feel more comfortable, if you are organized and well prepared.

Begin with good introduction: Write your name on the board along with subject title you are teaching them. Also, make students introduce themselves. Let them know about your expectations related to class participation. Make students familiar with the sense of your teaching style.

Introduce subject and course material: Provide students good overview of the course and contents of the syllabus. Explain the course organization, requirements, major assignments, and policies. It will be beneficial for students, if you hand-over well-written, detailed syllabus for their reference. Also, explain in detail about number of exams, number and length of papers, books to read etc.

Provide an opportunity for students to ask questions: Let students clarify any doubts if they have regarding attendance or course. Make it clear to the students and tell them if you will keep track of the attendance and how you will grade them. Also, make them aware if you plan to engage students in class discussions. It is also helpful to explain to students why you value attendance and their participation in class.

Last but not least, make it memorable day for yourself – your first day on new job!!