Thursday, September 5, 2013

WHAT TEACHING TAUGHT ME

I was a freelance soft skills trainer. During that time I had the privilage of training II year graduation students of a leading Women's college in Chennai. This experience that lasted a year and a half was one of the best times of my life. Of it I learned:

1. That one works hard as a student, one works harder as a teacher.

2. That 40 minutes is a very very long time :) Not in a negative sense, when we are in charge, time seems to creep and crawl. Though I can empathize with the students who feel the same.

3. That one can never assume to know enough. There is always more to learn.

4. That learning and interaction are amazing partners.

5. That one needs to concentrate more than the students on what we say, every word matters.

6. That Students can ask the darnedest of questions!! :) Be prepared.

7. That respect follows trust. One needs to believe in our own capabilities in order to be convincing and gain their trust.

8. That its a teacher who decides a student's favourite subject.

9. That the power of encouragement is much more than that of advice.

10. That the responsibility of a teacher is not restricted only to subject matter but also in encouraging and instilling self confidence in the student.

Last but not the least...That my teachers are the best!!

13 comments:

  1. This is great stuff Preethi.... Didnt know you were a teacher... no wonder you emote so well and have such a kind heart towards humanity... how I wish there were more like you on earth, and esp India

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    1. I am blessed to have got that opportunity. Even that, I got from my teacher and mentor who literally threatened me to try it. I am glad I took her advice. :) and its really nice of you to say so :) every one is like that rayla...it takes a bit of awareness to draw them out :)

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  2. ........one works harder as a teacher. how true.

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    1. absolutely kalpana...learnt that only after I started teaching :)

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  3. Agree with all the points. Very nicely expressed!
    I believe 'There is always more to learn' as the process of learning is for life!

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    1. Thank you anitha...apologise for the late reply :)

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  4. Teachers are truly mentors and hold the position next to parents. We salute all teachers who mold the students and give them direction in life. Good post Preethi.

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  5. Teachers are truly mentors and hold the position next to parents. We salute all teachers who mold the students and give them direction in life. Good post Preethi.

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  6. Wow! You are in one of the noblest professions!
    Greetings to you on this day!

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    1. thanks indrani :) hope I do get an opportunity to continue :) was able to teach only for a year and a half :)

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  7. Nicely writte. Probably you should add - Teach them for sometime - but students remember you for life!! ( almost all of them )!!Lalitha Balakrishnan

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    1. thank you ma'am :) and point taken..absolutely right! :)

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