An effective teacher creates an environment in which students are comfortable asking questions, exploring different ideas, and discussing their results with peers. Vygotsky explains how culture and language shape the classroom, so it is the role of the teacher to construct an environment that encourages active learning and discussion. Getting students engaged is not always easy, but by acknowledging their ideas and allowing them to take on a larger role in their learning, we can motivate them to explore key concepts and ideas, which are much more beneficial to the students’ comprehension of the subject.

​

     From my experiences both as a student and as the teacher, learning is more fruitful when students are able to draw connections from their own experiences, both personal and academic. As a result, such a classroom accommodates constructive learning, as coined by Jean Piaget, allowing students to build off previous knowledge when encountering new ideas. Finding these opportunities within lessons help students see the relevance and importance of the concepts. The classroom then becomes a setting where the students can take charge of their learning while the teacher acts as a facilitator and, to an extent, another peer.

​

     Furthermore, with such an approach centered on the students’ role in learning, it is important that the teacher can effectively assess students’ knowledge and address any common mistakes and misconceptions. The teacher can do this by assessing what students learn through class discussions and formative assessments. These allow the teacher to see how students are thinking and provide an opportunity for the teacher to give sufficient feedback to the student.

​

     Discussions in class are a powerful tool for students’ learning and the teacher should take extra steps to take full advantage of them. It is important that the teacher listens carefully to the students’ ideas and that they use a method of responsive teaching in order to learn how the students are thinking about a problem. Through revoicing and elaboration, the teacher can invite students to reassess their own ideas and modify, if necessary, the way they approach a problem. 

​

     Finally, a teacher should also treat all students equally, meaning that every student should have equal opportunity to a fine education. More than refraining from any discrimination against a student’s background, status, or beliefs, a teacher should also make sure that students receive the necessary support in being successful in the classroom no matter their academic needs. This entails recognizing what steps need to be made to create a classroom that demonstrates equity along with inclusiveness. Moreover, a tool teachers can use to motivate students from different backgrounds is including a diverse set of role models that students can refer to who have made or are currently making great contributions in related fields.