Advice for New Teachers

Ben Owens is a high school science and math teacher. Here are the highlights of his advice to new teachers. Needless to say, the advice applies to new and experienced law professors as well.

1. Avoid, like the plague, teaching in isolation. Build a vibrant network of peers and then use it to share ideas, give and receive constructive criticism, and learn new ways to improve your teaching.

• Know what you are teaching, as well as your limits. 

 

1. Teach more than just the curriculum. Leverage your knowledge to teach the skills that students will need and be expected to use for the rest of their lives – even if they are not formally included in your curriculum.
2. Know your students. It has been said that the three most important things to truly reach students are relationships, relationships, and relationships.
3. Know & use teaching best practices. We know what works and what doesn’t. Student-centered classrooms, enabling technologies, inquiry-based instruction, problem and project-based learning are all examples of proven instructional methods that work.

• Be a visible leader for your students in and outside your school. 

• Focus on continuous improvement. 

• Be a role model to your peers – even as a new teacher. 

• Find the balance. 

 

1. Lastly, share your story. Find that one thing that you love the most or that is working and share it. You can read more here. 
2. (ljs)
3.