Why "Real Talk" Works
Have you been told not to talk about family and life with your students? Have you been told not to talk about sports, video games, or music? My advice on this topic is to keep a balance. Sharing yourself with limits definitely has its benefits. Students like relating to their teachers; moreover, s h aring your interests and who you are with students builds relationships. Everything today in education is about relationships. Discipline is struggling to survive in schools today. Being honest and authentic with students will help you develop rapport, and this will lead to a better managed class. Remember: often, students don’t like the subject matter; they like you, the person teaching it. When students like you, they like your class. They will try harder. Do what you feel comfortable with. I have no problem talking about my two sons and the funny moments from the weekends. Giving advice to students relating to outside of the class is something I include also. This shows you care. Ea...