Let’s face it – we’re all different: some of us are shy while others are very outgoing. As a teacher, you need to find ways to ensure that each student has an equal opportunity to express themselves in his/her own way.
One thing that bothered me in school was how one-sided and “traditional” certain teachers were. They had an old-fashioned rule that in order to pass the class you had to write great papers, do well on tests, do great presentations and participate in class. Now, I’m not saying that that is a bad thing…but for students who were shy (or easily embarrassed) their lack of class participation, or lack of being able to effectively give public presentations caused their grades to suffer A LOT!
I, for one, can sometimes have multiple personalities. Wait, did I just say that out loud? I did, didn’t I? Well let me clarify that…
In certain class settings I was comfortable, raising my hand, answering questions, cracking jokes (not in a disruptive way, no worries), having fun, learning – the whole nine! But if I was in a classroom with a teacher who was a bit more structured and intimidating, sometimes I came across as stand-offish and quiet. So in these classes, teachers would deduct points from my grade due to lack of participation. Which suc…… er, um, stank.
Plus, I HATED public speaking and would get so nervous beforehand, I thought I would pass out or throw up in front of the class.
Luckily, neither of those things happened. Thank. You. Jesus!
But I had a professor one year whose approach was a lifesaver and opened my eyes to new methods of learning. Rather than following the standard black-and-white grading system, he made up his own rules. This leveled the playing field and gave ALL students a chance to use their strengths to succeed.
He posted questions online after classes and required that everyone respond online (like a blog). I was amazed to see the awesome writing of students who never participated in class.
In addition, this teacher used his website to post videos, clips, quotes, songs, scenes from movies – all sorts of things, using methods that appealed to every student's learning style in a different way. He also allowed us to post questions and have group discussions with other students, for all to see.
At times he would read comments/questions that were posted online and discuss that in class the next day/week, so that those who processed their thoughts verbally could continue the discussion. It was awesome! It was an open-dialogue that made learning fun! Homework was no longer a boring individual task – it was fun and interactive. And I loved it!
And because of that, I did very well in that class. And so did pretty much everyone else!
You knew that he genuinely wanted each student to succeed! He embraced each person’s unique personality and gave us all an equal opportunity to express it.
You might be thinking “that sounds fine and dandy, but how can I apply that to my current teaching methods, without requiring me to change who I am? After all, half of the year/semester is over.”
I’m glad you asked.
Here’s a list of the reasons why all teachers need their own website, and 7 things you can do with your user-friendly, WordPress website:
1. Create An “Ask ______ (Insert Your Name)” Section On Your Site.
This allows students to post questions using their names (or anonymously!) about things discussed in class. You’d be surprised at how many students might be too shy to ask questions in class, in fear of looking stupid or being judged. However, by giving them an opportunity to do so in a safe environment without fear of ridicule from other students – the chances of having better results from these students has skyrocketed!
Some students are ashamed to ask questions because they are afraid the teacher will embarrass them because it is something they should already know. As much as people say “no question is a stupid question” some teachers respond in a way that comes across as condescending or judgmental. No one likes to feel dumb or belittled, but it happens all the time, even from “mentors” who one might enlist for help. I can attest to that. Although I was shy, I was always the kid that would volunteer myself as the class “idiot” because I knew someone else was too ashamed to ask. I’ve had students come up to me privately at the end and whisper “Thea, thanks for asking that! I was scared to ask that out loud because I thought everyone else knew that already and I didn't want to look stupid. THANK YOU!!”
In fact, I had one friend (who shall remain nameless!) who would write questions that she wanted answered on a piece of paper and pass them to me during the class so that I could ask the teacher instead if her! But I didn’t mind at all.
Plus, I’m naturally inquisitive, my mind races a mile-a-minute and I can forget things quickly if I don’t make a conscious effort to stay focused.
Again, by creating multiple channels for students to ask questions, you have a better chance of improving your classroom's level of success. Plus, it makes for a much better classroom atmosphere!
2. Post Upcoming Topics For Discussion.
This is one KEY feature that will make things so much easier (and less frustrating) as a teacher! Most teachers will provide students with a syllabus or an overview for that course. However, you might decide during the course to spend more or less time than you intended on a certain subject. Sometimes this presents a challenge for students who can’t keep track of the changes. As a result, students sometimes forget which assignment is due when, and what they need do before the next class, making it frustrating for both the student and the teacher.
But once in a while, you will get a slacker or two who uses this as an excuse to not complete assignments. Have you ever gotten the excuse “You see, what had happened was, I was following the syllabus and didn't realize I did the wrong assignment until it was too late"?
Well, with the ability to edit the syllabus online as needed, you will be able to deem all excuses as a thing of the past. (Sorry students…don’t hate me!!)
3. Create A Twitter Account For Fun Communication With Students.
Encourage students to engage with you on Twitter by creating fun discussions, games, and contests using Twitter hashtags for topics in class. They may need to create a new one solely for class (you might too!).
For example: If you are an English teacher discussing poetry, for Valentine’s Day you can have a contest where you’d select a winner to win a special prize for the best response for “Roses are red, violets are blue…”
So your hashtag could be #rosesRredvioletsRblue.
(Yes – I know that’s not grammatically correct…especially for an English teacher, but Twitter has character limits people!)
But I digressed…
You can set a deadline and require all entries to be submitted by 11:59PM on February 13th.
Then you can announce the winner on your website the next day, and later post a "congrats" on Twitter.
In addition, you can copy/paste all of the entries on your website.
Not only does this encourage creativity and quick-thinking, but it is pretty darn fun! This shows students you are willing to meet them where they are at by engaging with them on social media. So many professors criticize the social media phenomenon because they don’t realize its effectiveness. By embracing social media and the “Web 2.0” strategies, you demonstrate to students that social media can be used for good and productive reasons.
Plus, being able to tell their friends that their teacher incorporates Twitter into the classroom for fun might make you a hit with the students AND increase your cool points. I’m just sayin’.
But that’s just my opinion… *wink*
Oh and if you think THAT is cool, what about this idea: the week before an exam, you can create another hashtag for students to submit short questions before the exam and set a deadline for all submissions. Then with the use of a cheap flip cam, you can record a video of yourself answering all of the questions. You can then upload that video to your site and post it privately via YouTube (or whatever video program you choose).
This will help the last class before the exam seem less stressful, because most of the questions will have been answered ahead of time.
As an added bonus, you can offer students the opportunity to each submit one last question (via Twitter) before the exam. After the Q&A session, you can post all of your questions and responses on your website.
Not only is this more convenient for the students, this can cut down on the endless hours of one-on-one tutoring and frustration on your end (as well as the students). It allows you to address several questions at one time, and by having it all done via the web and video – students can replay it over and over.
Isn’t that awesome?! I think so. But I’m a little biased…
And these are just SOME of the things you can do with your website!
Note: I am aware that most of these tips apply to older students, but my following posts will include tips for teachers with younger students, no worries.
For part two, please check back next week. To get notified FIRST – simply subscribe to my list by entering your name and email in the upper right corner of my site. Yup, I’m talking about that rectangular box with the blue arrow.
I’ve got lots more goodies to share with you. Can’t wait!! 
~Thea
P.S. – Did you find of these tips useful? Let a sista know! Do tell by posting in that lovely comment area below. I can be nosey like that
{ 35 comments… read them below or add one }
Love the post. So informative and bet teachers didn't realize the possibilities you shared. You didn't ASK me for a grade as if I was a teacher, but I'll shout out an A+++. Can't wait till the next part!
Who-hoo!!!! an A+++? Thanks Carol
Brilliant idea. I never thought about teachers having websites but it totally makes sense. If teachers really cared about impacting the new generation and not just do the bare minimum, they should be paying attention to this.
“Brilliant”? Oh…thanks Ronke
I agree that teachers REALLY need to pay attention to the internet trends. It can really be used in a major way (without spending that much money!!)
Awesome topic, so many GOLD nuggets in here, not just for teachers but for any service occupation.
Thanks Debra! Glad you found it useful
Great post!! Teachers need to use every tool available to impact their students!
Thanks Tom – I totally agree with you
Great article. This will definitely make a difference in the lives of many students.
Thanks Donovan, I really hope so
I love your writing style, Thea – very refreshing and fun! As for teachers having websites, what a great idea. It would be informative to see some examples of how teachers might be using this strategy.
Why thank you Ms. Gazeley
I know a number of teachers, so hopefully examples will be on the horizon
But I will do some research to see if I can find any examples online too.
Thea, What a great post. I couldn't agree more. My daughter's middle school has their own website and each teacher has their own web page. They post weekly assignments and test schedules. They also posts links to others learning resources as well as links to worksheets handed out in class in case they are misplaced. One thing you didn't mention which I find very helpful, is that parents are able to keep track of what their child is learning, when assignments are due and test dates. I no longer have to rely on my daughter to tell me what's going on in each class. You may want to include that in your future posts for younger kids.
Thanks Jamie
That is awesome that your daughter’s school does that. Can you send me the link of her school? I’d love to see examples.
And thanks for the tip. I shall make sure to include that in the next post. You are giving me so much fuel for the next post – THANK YOU!
Thea, Great article. I agree that teachers should be more "21st century". Students are so exposed to the computer world and it is a good thing. My daughter does part time online school and it is a fun and efficient way to learn compared to the other half of her time at brick and mortar school. Great job. Look forward to the second part.
Thank you Claudia
. If I could turn back time, I WISH I had the opportunity to go back and do school part-time online AND attend a brick and mortar school simultaneously. Your website is such a great resource for parents who want the best for their children.
Thea, this is a fabulous idea! Very creative and so "right on" about meeting kids where they're at … texting and on social media! I can't wait to hear more of your ideas
Why thank you very much Susan!!
Part 2 will be on it’s way before the weekend is over. Hopefully you will find it just as beneficial
P.S. – You rock! But you already know that
Great ideas! The mainstream method of teaching leaves a lot to be desired in my opinion. Everyday more and more parents are turning to homeschool for some of the reasons you have mentioned. I like your ideas…sort of the best of both worlds! Great insights! Thanks for sharing!
No problemo Denny. Glad to share
You too have a great site and resource for parents, so I’m honored that you found this useful. I’m wondering if I should feature Hanna Montana in the next post since you mentioned that it’s the “best of both worlds”? Hmmmn…
Great article with great suggestions for teachers to interact with students. Unfortunately, the most of the teachers that I worked with would not like this kind of feedback and interaction from students. Many of them wanted to be in control of all situations. However, they needed to get in the game of the 21st century and learn the ways of how people now communicate through a blog and website. Are you a teacher? We'd have a lot to talk about. Again, great content and information.
Thanks Rose for the kind words!
You’ve worked with teachers? Please tell me more about that…
No, I’m not a “teacher” (as far as licensed professional) but I was a tutor for most of my teenage life and throughout college as a volunteer. I still work with children as a part-time childcare provider/professional diaper changer/boogie wiper, etc…
My plan is to open up a place for child/teenage care and after-school monitoring and incorporate that with this web design company to give children and parents access to the great world of Web 2.0. But I’m taking baby steps. Details will ensue later
This is an excellent article Thea
Lots of great suggestions for anyone that does any kind of "teaching"!!
Why thank you Ms. Rose! I receive that
That means a lot coming from an internet whiz like yourself
Very interesting idea for teachers to relate with students!
I wish all teachers taught like this! I'm sure I would of gotten more out of school.
Thanks Rachelle
(Pretty name!!)
I wish all teachers taught like this too. Maybe I wouldn’t have dreaded waking up every morning, hitting the snooze button 20 times, and I could’ve prevented myself from all those hours of tutoring and late-night studying only STILL end up with a bad test grade LOL.
Y’all come back now, ya’ hear?!
Not only is your site beautiful, I love your writing style, enjoyed your article very much. Will be coming back again.
Aww…thanks Elvie! YOUR website is pretty fantabulous too!
P.S. – I’ve stopped stressing about making everything perfect in my living space, but instead functional (thanks to YOU!) Now things are remaining MUCH more organized and it’s been wonderful
I hope many, many teachers read this article and follow your suggestions.
Love your style Thea!! Great article!
Thanks Annemarie
YOUR style is pretty darn spectacular (if I may say so myself!) so that’s a BIG deal coming from you my dear
I also agree to this, most students can do multi tasking when online so i think this is cool
Thanks Joven!!
P.S. – Every time I see your gravatar, it makes me crack up LOL
Thea,
I think these are great ideas. The format for many classrooms would have to change to allow teachers time for this though. My husband is a high school teacher and already works 60 hour weeks. He teaches mostly AP classes and the time required for grading is INSANE. (especially when essays are involved).
He has been creating online tests and quizzes this year and should gain some time back next year because they will already be in the online test system.
Every teacher in his school had to have a webpage this year and he started trying to use it a lot to post assignments and wanted to try to use twitter. He had to leave a lot of those ideas behind though once the school year got rolling (I believe he is still using the web page to some extent though). It seems the pace of the curriculum and number of students means they can only try a couple new things a year.
He would LOVE to have iPads for everyone in the class. There is so much with interactive learning kids could do.
I am a huge fan of the Khan Academy. If you aren't familiar check it out at KhanAcademy.org. I think using videos and non-class time for at least some of the lectures would be a huge gain for the classroom. More time could be spent on discussion and interactive learning then.
A lot of schools don't allow the use of cell phones in the classroom (the phones get confiscated if they are seen). I think if the school could make a shift in understanding how twitter could be used in the classroom it would be a big benefit. Although they could potentially have students just texting each other and checking FB.
I know this is an older post but I still have to comment and say that I think this is a GREAT idea!! Very few of my teachers had websites when I was going to school, but I think it's definitely something that every teacher should do because it makes them so much more accessible – and more accessible means more learning, which means better grades, which is just better for everyone!! Great stuff, I'm off to read the other two parts!!
~Laurie
Yep, each reason alone might be enough to seem a convincing argument if a teacher were considering their own website. Unfortunately, the image is that it's too hard, too time consuming, and not worth it. But when you speak to a teacher who has done it they almost always rave about the benefits and how they don't know how they did without it. The trick then is somehow convincing teachers, making the benefits so clear, that it seems the only course of action. Articles like these help, but I suppose buy in from schools is most important. Integrating it into schools by allotting time just for website development and maintenance is essential.