Teach English in Chengling XiAng - Anqing Shi

Establishing RapportThe concept of establishing rapport with individuals in an educational setting is an extremely important element for effective instruction. Creating positive and trustful relationships with students leads to a comfortable and greater learning environment. A connection between the teacher and student can deter frustration and promote an atmosphere that respects consistency. There are many tips and ideas that a teacher should consider when developing rapport with students. When combined, these tips are key for conveying that good rapport is a priority for the teacher to have with their students. Rapport defined in the dictionary is explained as a connection, especially harmonious or sympathetic (dictionary.com). Unfortunately, there are times when trying to tie both establishing rapport and effective teaching to be a bit tricky. When a teacher is trying to establish rapport with their students, it is essential they understand the students? skill level, their likes and dislikes as well as implementing valid and adequate teaching methods. In the first lesson, a teacher should always receive input by their students by asking questions or giving out a survey to retain answers to the questions above. Once the teacher has an understanding on the best teaching methods, that in itself can help develop rapport with the students. The idea of going to the students level to see how they will learn the best can never be overlooked when establishing good relationships. To look more in depth about creating trust, one may want to compare a teacher-student relationship to that of a therapist-client one. If one were to look at the alliance between a therapist and their clients, the elements that make up this alliance are very similar to teachers and students. First, the extent of which students and teachers agree on the goal of the learning and the students? ability to work towards these goals. Also, motivating the students to accomplish such goals, but still understanding and empathizing with frustration and doubt. Finally, an important element when developing trust is the emotional connection. Teachers have to let their students know that they genuinely care about their education and ability to learn. Clearly, trust is active in the alliance between teachers and students, which then contributes to building rapport, enhancing motivation and stimulating learning (Buskist & Saville). There are many things a teacher can do themselves to create an environment that goes hand-in-hand with rapport building. Some things the teacher can do is to learn call their students by name, learn about the students? interests and hobbies, arrive to class early and stay late allowing the students? the opportunity to chat before or after class to ask questions or to express concerns. Other things the teacher can do is to explain course policies and expectations, and also to stay consistent with them throughout the term. Interacting with the students, rewarding comments and questions with verbal praise, being enthusiastic about teaching and the subject matter and smiling are also good tips on building rapport. In order for the classroom to have good dynamics, the teachers should tell jokes to lighten things up (Buskist & Saville). There are a lot of things to consider in the pursuit of establishing rapport with students. Effective instruction, developing trust with students, and having positive connections are all things that must be considered. The teacher really holds the responsibility to make sure that there is a good classroom environment in order for the students to be successful and to care about learning. Citations: Buskist W. & Saville B. (2001) Rapport-Building: Creating Positive Emotional Contexts for Enhancing Teaching and Learning, Vol. 14, No. 3.