Teaching is like many other skills.
Some people are born with exceptional teaching talent while many of the rest of
us fall into the “average” category. But as with other skills, individuals can
learn to become good and even excellent teachers. However, it does take work.
Pinsky, Monson, and Irby describe a
study of physicians, identified as excellent teachers by student and resident
ratings, to assess the practices that made them successful. The physicians were
asked, “In terms of teaching, is there an example of some way you are a better
teacher now because of something you tried that succeeded?”
Involve the learner…the
more you involve students/residents in active learning, the better the
learning experience for all.
Create a positive learning
environment…Enthusiasm and a sense
of humor help. Excellent teachers respect learners, care about teaching and
learning, and admit their limitations.
Consider learners…Know
what the learners know already and what they need to learn. Assess the
learners’ needs by asking questions.
Innovate…
“Be creative, have fun,” “Talk to colleagues, experiment, keep revising,”
“Invest in innovative activity”
Engage the learner…Use
analogies, images, metaphors, and cases. Some teachers identify themselves
with the learners; e.g., “We know this doesn’t make sense.”
Prepare adequately…Know
your subject matter. Read, talk with colleagues, gather examples from the
medical literature (and popular literature), write or outline what you will
say/do.
Limit content…Know
what your main objectives are and teach to them. Keep it simple.
Maintain flexibility in
action…Monitor your learners’
reactions as you teach and modify as needed.
Pinsky, L.E., Monson, D., & Irby,
D.M. (1998). How excellent teachers are made: Reflecting on success to improve
teaching. Advances in Health Sciences Education, 3, 207-215.
