Characteristics of an Effective Educator

It is difficult to define the characteristics necessary for being an effective educator.  The biggest problem is that the needs of the student change over time, just as the world we live is in a constant state of flux.  The global society we find ourselves in renders the schooling that previous generations experienced obsolete.  Therefore, I think the most important characteristic a teacher needs is the ability to adapt themselves to any situation.  Knowing one’s community and the specific needs of the children within it is vital to being a successful teacher.

I also believe that the role of a teacher, especially those of us with an interest in early education, is to guide children to live to their full potential so they can become the type of people this world needs.  It is just as important to teach them reading, writing and arithmetic as it is to teach them how to think critically, the importance of possessing a strong character and working together to improve society.

An effective educator also needs to be a good listener, both to their students as well as to their colleagues.  Good communication is not only a skill a teacher must possess; it is one they need to be able to teach. 

Finally, patience is a key virtue that is absolutely necessary – not all students learn at the same rate and what may come easily to some may be incredibly taxing to others.  An educator must be able to be willing to put in the time so all students are given the best opportunity to succeed.