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This is how our TEFL graduates feel they have gained from their course, and how they plan to put into action what they learned:
Establishing RapportEstablishing rapport with students at the beginning of school, meaning from
the first day does not have to be a difficult experience, even for a new,
inexperienced teacher. There are simple things that the teacher can do to
construct a positive atmosphere from the beginning.
One of these steps is to simply stand at the door as the students
enter and greet them as they are coming to the door. In some areas, it is
good to shake the student's hands, but when teaching in TEFL classes, it
is best to find out what the customs and such are before doing the latter.
One thing I do when greeting students at the door is to ask their names
as they enter. I usually remember several of them and it seems to amaze
them when that happens. Once everyone is inside and seated, I give each
person a colored marker and an index card. I talk to each student.
If I guess their name correctly, I have them tell me one thing about
themselves. I then direct them to write their name on the index card and
tape it to the desk so that it hangs down the front. That way I can see their
names. This is also a good way to begin assessing their language
skills on the very first day. They also like it that I try to guess their names
prior to having them put the index card with their name on display.
Every day, I greet my students at the door and say, "How are you
today?" They also know that I am concerned for them when doing that.
Also, learning the student's hobbies and interests enables a teacher
to use examples in class that they can directly relate to. It also shows the
students that the teacher is truly listening to what they are saying. I also feel
that giving them a voice by doing this is an important factor in building
confidence and establishing trust. In giving the students a voice in the
classroom, they also take responsibility for their learning. A good sense of
humor also is a good quality to have because there are times when things do
not go as planned. A teacher with a good sense of humor can salvage a
lesson just by showing a calm and positive demeanor in awkward situations.
Consistency is a key factor in building rapport with students. students
must know what to expect every day when coming into a classroom. Trust is
also another key factor and in keeping an open mind, and in showing a
genuine interest in the students, it also helps to further build rapport.
The subject of rapport is not covered in most course materials when
teachers are in college. Most of what is learned comes from outside sources,
and one of the best definitions, if rapport can be clearly defined, follows:
"...In our view, rapport is a positive emotional connection among students, teacher, and subject matter that emerges from the manner in which the teacher constructs the learning environment. Much of the framework is provided by the teacher's disposition toward students, the subject matter, the educational process, and, in general, life. To the extent that student and teacher unite to achieve course goals, the learning environment favors increased student receptivity to the teacher and subject matter. Central to the development of such an alliance is the teacher's sense of self, as reflected in such characteristics as trust and respect, and a willingness to involve students in the learning process..."(1)
1. Buskist, William, and Bryan Saville. "Rapport-Building: Creating Positive Emotional Contexts for Enhancing Teaching and Learning." Web. 2001
