Secondary ITE General Professional Studies.
The following reflective journal considers those aspects from the course sessions and reading material related to "effective teaching and motivation", "managing challenging behaviour" and "assessment for learning", giving careful consideration to their impact on the enabling of "effective teaching".
Effective Teaching and Motivation.
Motivation plays a crucial role in effective teaching since pupils not motivated to learn are more likely to misbehave and consequently if the teacher does not manage that misbehaviour the effective learning of all pupils in the class can be negatively affected (Capel et al, 2003: p 103). However, experience and observations during the GPS session (29 September, 2003) have led me to consider that there is actually no particular correct approach to motivate pupils to learn. Capel et al (2003: p 113) suggests that this is mainly due to the fact pupils, like adults, need to feel that they are individuals and not just part of a group and I have confirmed this in my lesson observations. .
Capel et al (2003: p 113) lists a number of means by which pupils may be motivated and providing quick feedback by marking work promptly is a good example. I have already seen the negative implication of failing to provide quick feedback through observing several classes where pupils had endeavoured to promptly submit quality homework only to see it still remain scattered on the teachers desk the following week, unmarked. Subsequently some pupils rejected the attempt to give them further homework whilst being unable to provide them with feedback on their previous endeavour.
In order to effectively motivate pupils the teacher needs the ability to effectively communicate with the class. Good communication is essential for developing good relationships with pupils, a positive classroom environment and effective teaching and learning (Capel et al, 2003: p 103).