A ‘boring’ teacher

She was a soft spoken, unassuming but gifted teacher. One of her enviable qualities, which endeared her to the students, was the wisdom of building harmonious and cordial relations with her students while also making them feel at ease. Teachers who manage to create a relaxed and less intimidating teaching and learning atmosphere often get the best out of their students. Her trade mark question, ‘Am I boring class?’ distinguished her from the rest.

Albeit coached in negative terms, it was critically important. It was intended to check the pulse of her classroom instruction while ensuring that every learner was on board. Not only did the students value her humility and her openness to criticism but they also revered her for recognising their ability to evaluate her instruction and give feedback. Trust is the bedrock of effective teaching.