Rachel O'Malley
McKay Student Ambassador
Elementary Education
Have you ever poured your heart into something, only to have it handed back covered in red ink and full of critical comments? If so, welcome to the world of becoming a teacher! But what if I told you that those corrections are actually stepping stones to becoming an incredible educator? Criticism and feedback can be some of the greatest assets in building your foundation as a future teacher.
Receiving feedback can be intimidating and even painful at first, especially when it points out areas for improvement. However, the ability to accept and apply feedback is what transforms a good teacher into a great one. Feedback is essential because it provides valuable insights into strengths and areas for growth.
Teaching is a skill that develops over time, and constructive criticism from professors, mentors, and peers helps refine lesson planning, classroom management, and instructional techniques. When you learn to use feedback as a way to jumpstart your learning, rather than focusing on your weaknesses, you can transform struggles into refined skills. With an open mind, educators can continuously improve their effectiveness, ensuring they create engaging learning environments for their students.
Learning from Experience
Throughout my education program, I’ve had moments where professors and mentors provided insights that challenged me, but ultimately helped me refine my teaching skills. One experience, in particular, stands out as a turning point in my journey as an educator.
The first time I taught a lesson on my own, I stood in front of twenty-two third graders with wide eyes and fidgeting hands. Using the brand-new smartboard, I did my best to go over a grammar worksheet while asking students for answers. I worked hard to appear confident and speak clearly as I explained the rules of homophones. I had spent the past week perfecting my lesson plan and practicing my instructions in front of a mirror. After thirty minutes of heart-pounding nervousness, the students jumped out of their seats and lined up at the door for music class.
Once the students were gone, I had a few minutes to go over my lesson with my mentor teacher. I was sure I had mastered classroom engagement, until my mentor gently pointed out that half the students had been doodling in their notebooks the entire time. That feedback stung. I felt disappointed in myself and reacted with embarrassment, discouraged to teach again. That night, I questioned whether I was even capable of being an effective teacher.
Thankfully, my mom offered me some wisdom, as mothers often do, that completely changed my perspective on feedback. Instead of viewing criticism as something negative, I should be excited by it—because it meant I had an opportunity to learn and improve. No one becomes an expert after their first lesson. Growth requires making mistakes, learning from them, and trying again. My mom taught me the beauty in receiving feedback as a gift because it provides a new perspective, builds resilience and makes you better.
Looking to the Master Teacher
We believe that Jesus Christ is the Master Teacher, and He asks us to become as a child—humble, patient, and full of love (see Mosiah 3:19). When we receive criticism, we should respond with humility and patience rather than defensiveness. Instead of becoming discouraged by feedback, we can view it as a tool for progress.
If Christ can extend patience and mercy toward our imperfections, then we should also extend that same grace to ourselves as we grow into better educators. By letting go of pride and readily accepting feedback, we can develop the skills and confidence necessary to make a lasting impact in the classroom.
The next time I met with Mrs. Bernstein, I asked if she could provide me with more feedback and guidance on classroom management. She was happy to help, offering specific pointers on how to hold students' attention, including words to use and words to avoid. She modeled various techniques and gave me numerous opportunities to practice my new skills.
After many more lessons and a great deal of feedback, I became significantly better at managing a classroom and instructing a room full of energetic students. In my final lesson, every student was engaged and excited to hear me teach, which was a huge transformation from my first attempt. I overcame my weaknesses and turned them into strengths by working hard and consistently seeking feedback.
Focus on the Journey
Becoming an effective teacher is a journey, not a destination. Growth happens when we embrace feedback, learn from our mistakes, and commit to improvement. Instead of fearing criticism, we should welcome it as an opportunity to refine our skills.
Whether it comes from professors, mentors, or even students, feedback is a gift that helps us become the best educators we can be. By approaching teaching with humility, resilience, and a willingness to learn, we can create meaningful and engaging learning experiences for our students—proving that every bit of red ink is worth it in the end.
HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT EDUCATION MAJORS?
Come meet with us during Ambassador Afternoons! If those times don't work, schedule an appointment here.
Comments