Becoming a teacher is a challenging and rewarding journey. For student teachers, the experience is unique, as they are still in the process of learning how to teach while also taking on the responsibilities of a full-time teacher. The purpose of this article is to provide insight into the daily experiences of student teachers, including their challenges and triumphs.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
What is a student teacher?
A student teacher is a pre-service teacher who is gaining practical experience in a classroom setting as part of their teacher education program. Student teachers work under the guidance of a cooperating teacher and are responsible for planning and delivering lessons, assessing student progress, and managing the classroom.
The Daily Routine
A typical day for a student teacher begins with preparation. They arrive at school early to review their lesson plans, gather materials, and set up the classroom for the day ahead. Once the students arrive, the student teacher begins the day with a warm-up activity, followed by a lesson or activity that aligns with the curriculum and the objectives of the day.
Throughout the day, the student teacher is responsible for monitoring student progress, providing feedback, and adjusting their teaching strategies to meet the needs of each student. They also handle administrative tasks such as taking attendance, grading assignments, and communicating with parents and colleagues.
At the end of the day, the student teacher reflects on their experiences and evaluates the effectiveness of their lesson plans and teaching strategies. They also prepare for the following day by reviewing their plans and making any necessary adjustments.
Challenges Faced by Student Teachers
Student teaching is not without its challenges. Some of the most common challenges include:
Classroom Management
Classroom management can be a daunting task, especially for student teachers who are still learning how to establish authority and manage behavior effectively. According to a study conducted by Jones and Jones (2016), effective classroom management is essential to student learning and can impact student achievement.
Time Management
Student teachers are often responsible for juggling multiple tasks and responsibilities, including lesson planning, grading, and administrative tasks. Managing time effectively is crucial to success in the classroom.
Differentiated Instruction
Student teachers must be able to differentiate instruction to meet the needs of all learners. This can be challenging, especially when working with students who have diverse learning needs and abilities.
Lack of Experience
Student teachers are still in the process of learning how to teach, and as a result, may lack experience in handling certain situations. This can be challenging, especially when dealing with complex issues such as student behavior or academic performance.
Triumphs of Student Teaching
Despite the challenges, student teaching can also be a very rewarding experience. Some of the most common triumphs include:
Seeing Students Learn and Grow
One of the most rewarding aspects of student teaching is seeing students learn and grow. Student teachers have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of their students, and this can be a source of great pride and satisfaction.
Developing Teaching Skills
Student teaching provides an opportunity for pre-service teachers to develop and refine their teaching skills. Through practice, observation, and feedback, student teachers can improve their ability to plan and deliver effective lessons, manage behavior, and differentiate instruction.
Building Professional Relationships
Student teaching provides an opportunity for pre-service teachers to build professional relationships with cooperating teachers, administrators, and colleagues. These relationships can be valuable sources of support and mentorship throughout a teacher’s career.
Preparing for the Future
Student teaching is a critical component of teacher education, as it provides pre-service teachers with the practical experience they need to prepare for their future careers. Through student teaching, pre-service teachers can develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the classroom.
Conclusion
Student teaching is a challenging and rewarding experience that provides pre-service teachers with the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge they need to become effective educators. While there are certainly challenges associated with student teachings, such as classroom management, time management, differentiated instruction, and lack of experience, there are also many triumphs, including seeing students learn and grow, developing teaching skills, building professional relationships, and preparing for the future.
To be successful as a student teacher, it is essential to remain committed to the process and to seek out support and guidance when needed. Student teachers should take advantage of opportunities to observe experienced educators, seek feedback from their cooperating teachers and peers, and reflect on their experiences to identify areas for improvement.
Ultimately, student teaching is an essential component of teacher education that provides pre-service teachers with the practical experience they need to become effective educators. By embracing the challenges and triumphs of the experience, student teachers can develop the skills and knowledge they need to make a meaningful impact on the lives of their students and the broader education community.