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There are several steps a teacher must take to become an intentional teacher. The first step is to become a certified teacher (Slavin, 2018, p. 16).  Although every state has a different certifying process, most states require teachers to graduate from a four-year college, successfully complete a student teaching internship, and pass a series of teacher certification tests, such as the Praxis tests, to become certified (Slavin, 2018, p. 16). After certification, teachers should continue their education to become an intentional teacher. Slavin (2018) lists four things in which intentional teachers must actively participate: “seek mentors, seek professional development, talk teaching, and read professional publications and join professional associations” (p. 18). Educational learning and professional development must always continue to be an intentional teacher. Teachers should seek out experienced mentors from whom they can learn, participate in many professional development courses to enhance their teaching skills, and read professional publications and join professional associations to stay up to date on the latest teaching news and strategies. Slavin (2018) also states that teachers should talk with other teachers, former classmates, parents, etc. for advice, new ideas, and constructive criticism. Each of these activities ensures that teachers know how to be intentional and effective in their classroom.

“Research + Common Sense = Effective Teaching” is a statement that should be used and remembered in the classroom. There are many research-based, educational theories that can be useful, but not all educational theories work in every classroom and every situation. A teacher must use common sense when teaching and ultimately keep student learning needs and the desired outcome in mind when presenting a lesson or activity (Slavin, 2018, p. 13).  Slavin (2018) states that “it is best to apply [educational psychology] principles with a hefty dose of common sense and a clear view of what is being taught” (p. 13) to ensure effective teaching.

 

References:

Slavin, R. E. (2018). Educational psychology: Theory and practice (12th ed.). New York, NY: Pearson.