Previously, we reported on what makes student teachers nervous. MENC member Deborah Stegner has some suggestions to allay your fears.

Lack of Subject Knowledge

Most student teachers have a firm grasp of content. So, gaining experience becomes the primary focus as you establish a teaching style. Observe, listen, and cooperate with students and staff. Use this time to gain knowledge, experience, confidence, skills, and techniques for use in your own classroom. You probably know more than you think you do.

Mentor/Student Teacher Relationship

The goal of the cooperating teacher is to guide you to become an efficient and effective teacher. Accept and implement his or her suggestions – they’re meant to aid your growth and point out areas for improvement. Seek assistance when needed. The cooperating teacher is a valuable source of information and knowledge.

Student/Student Teacher Relationship

Your own style, creativity, attitudes, and experiences influence the classroom setting. Don’t try to be one of the students or a best friend. Maintain a friendly, yet professional relationship with your students. Foster positive thoughts and actions so the students feel excited and eager to try new things and learn new concepts. Encourage the students to do their best, and to learn from their mistakes rather than becoming discouraged. Prepare thoroughly and treat the students with respect, and you’ll gain their respect in turn.

Doubts about Wanting to Teach

Never think of teaching as just a job but as an opportunity to share your love of music and learning with others. Instilling in others a lifelong love of music and the desire to continually gain new knowledge is a powerful gift with unlimited potential. Remain an active learner and be willing to share new ideas, skills, and talents with your students and encourage them to do the same. As music educators we can touch the hearts and souls as well as the minds of our students.

This article is adapted from “Do’s And Dont’s For Student Teachers,” by Deborah Stegner in Tempo (January 2005): 38-39. To read the full article, see New Jersey MEA’s magazine Tempo. Used with permission.

Debbie Kidd Stegner is from Kentucky, and has taught band, chorus, and general music at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. She currently is the Arts Education Director for the Richmond Area Arts Council, teaches at Transylvania University, and conducts the Gateway Children' Chorus in Mount Sterling.


Read the entire Student Teaching Series:
Student Teaching: What Makes You Nervous
Student Teaching: What I Learned
Student Teaching: Tips From Veteran Teachers
 

For help and support, visit the Future Teachers Forum.

Read other weekly articles about Student Teaching.
How to Make the Most of Your Student Teaching (Part 1)
How to Make the Most of Your Student Teaching (Part 2)
How to Make the Most of Your Student Teaching (Part 3)
Trouble in Paradise
Bee Ready For Student Teaching
MKOs (More Knowledgeable Others) on Student Teaching, feature article in January 2010 Newslink.

--Jen Reed, February 24, 2010 © MENC: The National Association for Music Education.