Characteristics of an Effective Educator

Maria Montessori once said, “The greatest sign of success for a teacher is to be able to say, ‘The children are now working as if I did not exist.” Effective educators are identified by their ability to nurture students’ natural curiosity and passion for learning, by equipping them with skills to become independent learners.  These educators are well-prepared, organized, and clear in their expectations.  They are masters in their respective fields and radiate confidence, enthusiasm, and passion as they teach.  Effective teachers know and care about their students’ academic strengths and weaknesses, personal interests, and unique personalities. They create engaging lessons that spur on independent thought, active learning, and in-depth discussion.  Their humor and wit provide the perfect amount of comic relief.  Students would say that these effective educators are fair, approachable, and wise.  They are a source of support for their students academically and personally.  But most important of all, effective educators inspire their students to become life-long learners by making learning a source of joy.