It is our role as teachers
to instill a fruitful learning atmosphere. However, how can we build a learning
environment in which adult students will lower their affective filter, generate
rapport and blossom? Here are my top beliefs.
1. Personalize your
classes by giving examples using what you know about your students. Instead of
saying, “John wakes up at 7.00”, why not change John for the name of a student
in class? Much more meaningful and inductive, besides showing they are important for
you.
2. Believe your
students can be fluent. They are there because they believe and when they believe
they work harder. So do you. When you believe your students can make it, you
will start thinking of ways to help them improve their learning process and
this might make them trust you.
3. Provide students
with meaningful feedback on how they can improve their English or the best
practice for them to be a successful language learner. Show them you care.
4. Praise your
students even for little achievements. Show them you’re taking their
improvement into account. Tell them you know they can do it, and when they get
there, make sure you point it out. This way they will see that you are attentive to
their progress.
5. Be a Role Model for
your student. Students usually look up to the teacher, so don’t speak
Portuguese. The moment you resort to Portuguese to explain something, you’re
allowing them to do the same. Challenge students to
understand and communicate using the English they have.
6. Sympathize with
your students. It’s not easy to learn a new language at adulthood. It takes a
long time for you to be in control of your life, and then when you start
learning a language, you don’t have a voice. How frustrating is it? Show understanding and encourage them
to keep on track.
7. Share your
story too. Let your students know about yourself. Illustrate an explanation
with examples of your life too. They want to feel you are approachable and,
luckily, there can be some interaction too.
8. Value their expertise –
let your students show their expertise in their field. It can be something
simple like explaining how easy stand up paddle is, for example, but let them
feel valued and show they can collaborate too.
9. Lighthearted classes
are fun, time flies and you want to be there again. Make your students have a
good time with the right mix of responsibility and humor. A friendly
atmosphere engages learners.
10. Add your tip here so we can
make 10.
