Navigating the Challenges: Life of a Teacher Insights

Being a teacher is a noble profession that comes with its own unique set of challenges and rewards. On the "Life of a Teacher" tab of Teaching with Lo-atile, we delve into the insights and experiences of educators navigating through the ups and downs of the teaching journey.

Reflecting on my experience of completing three days in the "life of a teacher" at Selcourt Primary School, I gained valuable insights into the competencies required to succeed as a beginner teacher. During this time, I worked closely with Mrs. Ndlovu, my mentor, who provided invaluable support and guidance. Taking on the full responsibilities of a teacher, including lesson planning, classroom management, and marking assessments, gave me a clear understanding of the daily demands of the profession. It was an eye-opening experience that tested my ability to manage both the academic and emotional needs of my learners.

In comparing Block 1 to Block 2 of my teaching experience, I noticed a significant shift in my confidence and ability to handle the workload. During Block 1, I often felt overwhelmed by the responsibilities, from managing time effectively to ensuring that learners were engaged and understood the content. However, by Block 2, I had become more comfortable with these tasks, developing a more structured routine and becoming more attuned to the learners’ needs. I was also better able to anticipate potential challenges and adjust my teaching strategies accordingly.

The most challenging activity during the three days was classroom management, especially ensuring that all learners remained focused and engaged throughout the lesson. Some learners tended to talk and distract others, which required me to constantly monitor the class and redirect their attention. I overcame this by using positive reinforcement and establishing clear expectations at the beginning of each lesson. I also incorporated more interactive activities to keep learners actively engaged, minimizing the likelihood of disruptions.

My self-evaluation survey revealed that I feel mostly ready to enter the teaching profession, though I recognize there are areas where I can improve. I feel confident in my ability to plan and deliver effective lessons, especially in subjects like Natural Science, but I would like to strengthen my classroom management skills further. Mrs. Ndlovu’s feedback in my School Assessment Log & Report highlighted my growth in building rapport with learners and fostering an inclusive learning environment, which aligns with my self-evaluation. However, she also pointed out that I could improve in areas such as managing time during lessons, a challenge I had noted at the start of my teaching experience.

Comparing my initial self-evaluation to the final one, I can see significant growth in my confidence and teaching competencies. I have developed a clearer understanding of what it takes to be an effective teacher, and I feel more prepared to take on the challenges of the profession.