The Importance Of Teacher Student Relationship

Developing a positive teacher-student relationship is essential for effective student learning. Encouraging each individual and maximising their learning potential makes for successful teachers. Establishing this relationship early on boosts student’s confidence and determination to succeed in education.

A study by Gillespie in 2002, found that fundamental qualities of a teacher-student relationship included compassion, respect and trust. With these qualities present, students were encouraged to perform their best and felt supported by their teacher.

But how can this relationship be achieved?

1.Establish a structure

Outlining a structure allows for the teacher’s expectations to be clear from the beginning. The teacher’s rules should be constantly reinforced, which students should acknowledge and respect. Once this mutual respect is established, both teachers and students know the boundaries and can adhere to them throughout the academic year.

2.Display enthusiasm and passion

A teacher who shows interest in what they are teaching will transfer this interest to their students. It is difficult to positively encourage students to learn a subject, when the teacher doesn’t display the same attitude they except to receive. This enthusiasm with the material being taught will be translated, resulting in engagement and positive performance.

3.Provide support

Showing an interest in each student equally and offering one-on-one support when needed is an integral part of establishing an efficient teacher-student relationship. Encourage them when they are succeeding and help them to reach their goals. Understand when they are finding a subject challenging and point them in the right direction.

4.Interactivity

Around 65% of people identify as visual learners. Furthermore, a study from Carnegie Mellon University shows that interactive learning is six times more likely to help students with memorising. Encouraging students to discuss a topic or debate an argument allows them to engage with the material more effectively. Discussing the answer as a class or in pairs results in more information being retained. Other interactive tasks include brainstorming on a whiteboard/interactive whiteboard, learning games and quizzes.

Teachers can impact their student’s academic success by establishing a positive relationship. This can be achieved in many ways and it is a step-by-step process. Making each student feel important will encourage them to excel in academia, creating a positive learning environment for both the teacher and their students.