CSFE Topic 8 : Deepening Teacher Reflective Practices: What is 'Good Teaching'?

What is good teaching?

Good teaching helps students understand, think critically, feel supported, and develop a lifelong love of learning.

What is the key measure of good teaching?

The positive impact it has on learners, not simply how well content is explained.

List five characteristics of a good teacher.

1. Builds positive relationships

2. Creates an inclusive, safe environment

3. Adapts teaching to learners' needs

4. Encourages curiosity and critical thinking

5. Inspires confidence and lifelong learning.

Why are teacher-student relationships important?

They increase trust, engagement, motivation, confidence and willingness to take learning risks.

Who said 'Kids don't learn from people they don't like'?

Rita Pierson.

What does reflective practice mean?

Thinking critically about teaching to continually improve practice and student learning.

Why do teachers engage in reflective practice?

To recognise strengths, identify improvements, make informed changes and improve student outcomes.

Why do good teachers continually reflect?

Because teaching is always evolving and there are always opportunities to improve.

What questions should teachers ask during reflection?

1. Why did this happen?
2. Why did my strategy work (or not)?
3. What evidence do I have?
4. What will I change next time?

What is reflection-in-action?

Thinking during teaching and making adjustments while the lesson is happening.

What is reflection-on-action?

Thinking after teaching to evaluate what worked and plan improvements.

Difference between reflection-in-action and reflection-on-action.

Reflection-in-action = during the lesson.
Reflection-on-action = after the lesson.

What is critical reflection?

A deeper form of reflection that examines why teaching worked, who benefited, who was disadvantaged and how teaching can become more equitable and inclusive.

Why is critical reflection considered the highest level of reflection?

Because it challenges assumptions and focuses on equity, inclusion and improving practice.

List tools that support reflective practice.

1. Reflective journals
2. Written notes
3. Portfolios/e-portfolios
4. Lesson videos
5. Peer observations (critical friends)
6. Professional learning
7. Practitioner research.

Why should teachers use multiple sources of reflection?

They provide a more accurate picture of teaching practice.

What was teaching traditionally like?

Teacher-centred with authority, lectures, memorisation, obedience and one teaching style for all students.

What is teaching like today?

Student-centred, relationship-focused, differentiated, technology-supported and focused on wellbeing, collaboration and critical thinking.

What has remained the same in teaching over time?

The goal of helping students learn, grow, and succeed.

What is teacher-centred teaching?

The teacher directs learning while students mainly listen and receive information.

What is student-centred teaching?

Students actively participate while teachers facilitate learning.

Why is reflecting on previous teachers useful?

It helps identify behaviours and strategies that shape your own teaching philosophy.

What questions should you ask when reflecting on teachers you have had?

1. What behaviours made the difference?
2. How did they communicate?
3. How did they make students feel?
4. Which strategies were effective?

How does the Australian Curriculum support good teaching?

It guides planning, develops knowledge and skills, ensures purposeful learning and helps create engaging learning experiences.

What three elements make up an effective classroom?

Culture, Structure and Pedagogy.

What is classroom culture?

Respectful, inclusive and safe relationships that support learning.

What is classroom structure?

Clear routines, expectations and organisation.

What is pedagogy?

The teaching approaches and strategies used to support student learning.

Why must culture, structure and pedagogy work together?

Together they create a positive, effective learning environment.

Why are positive relationships essential for learning?

Students learn best when they trust, respect, and feel valued by their teacher.

What is the difference between reflection and critical reflection?

Reflection evaluates teaching.
Critical reflection also questions assumptions, equity, inclusion and who benefits from teaching.

How has the teacher's role changed over time?

From mainly delivering knowledge to facilitating learning, building relationships, supporting wellbeing and meeting diverse learner needs.

Why is differentiation important?

It adapts teaching to meet the different needs, abilities and learning styles of students.

How does professional learning improve teaching?

It introduces new ideas, strategies and perspectives that support continual professional growth.