If knowledge is power, then knowledge of student names is super power. If you have ever been a substitute teacher (or if you are currently one) you know the power the class perceives it has over the substitute teacher simply because they have the "knowledge of names" and the teacher doesn't. It absolutely amazes me when I go in to coach a teacher who is struggling with classroom management, she/he is a month into it and admits to me not knowing all of the names in the class or still getting some of the names confused. On top of that, many times there is no finalized seating chart! What?!
Why would a teacher submit to such torture? Once again it's about creating conditions. The teacher who does not absolutely thrive on learning those names as quickly as possible is in the wrong business. How a teacher learns the names is that teacher's business—just get it done, now! Students really respect the teacher who does that because the teacher is in control. The teacher's agenda can now be moderated by the calling of names to contribute, help with classroom business, and even for the distribution of praise. Without the name knowledge, it's the students' agenda and they know it will be close to impossible for the teacher to dole out any consequences in the event of some major infraction.
Students want to respect the teacher—there's some powerful knowledge, let's us it.
Stef
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students normally expect teachers to call their names often.Students come to know the teacher's name in the very first day.Teachers should know the students' name to make praise,deliver instructions or to question them.A great website brings out information about how the knowledge of students' names motivates students to be more active in the class.
ReplyDeletestudent motivation