Some have had great experiences in K -12 and fond memories of their favorite teacher; some have the opposite experience. However, they all strive to impact the future of education positively, to either provide students with a similar positive experience or a better experience than they had.

This brings me to the question, what elements are needed to teach brilliantly? To build inclusive, collaborative learning environments? We all entered this field to have a positive impact on it. But at what depth? Teaching is more than standing before a group of learners and dispensing information for them to learn. (By the way, a TON of research states this is ineffective teaching at ANY level.) Instead, having the courage to teach requires knowledge, understanding, skills, and abilities that help us connect to learners, engage them in the learning process, and inspire them beyond the classroom.  

Building educational relationships is critical for creating a positive and effective learning environment. The Brilliant Teacher considers how they will develop positive relationships with each learner. Some ways to build relationships with learners include showing interest in their lives beyond the classroom, being approachable and available, providing feedback that inspires growth, and treating them with respect and empathy. Building relationships with colleagues and families (depending on your teaching level) can also enhance collaboration and communication, leading to better learner outcomes. And isn't that the goal of education?

Understanding the science of learning involves analyzing how the brain processes and retains information and identifying effective teaching and learning strategies. It involves understanding concepts like memory, attention, motivation, and metacognition. By applying this knowledge, teachers can improve their learning and teaching methods to support their learners. I value ongoing professional development and love sharing resources to help educators at all levels. Check out my Effective Teaching Book Recommendations if you want something to read to enhance your teaching. Several recommendations discuss the science of learning at each level of education, ECE, K-12, and higher education.

No matter what level of education you teach at, ECE or higher education…learning must be active. Early childhood educators know this instinctively. If they do not engage their learners in learning through play, inquiry, and movement, they ultimately experience challenging behaviors. This is not much different in K-12 or higher education. What looks different is the learner's behavior. The result is the same: learners become disengaged in the learning process when they are not actively engaged. We have all heard the phrase, "Experience is a great teacher." So, how do you bring active learning experiences into your classroom?

 Here are some active learning strategies that will engage learners in learning and encourage participation and interaction with the learning material. These can work at any level; contextualize them for the age group you work with.

• Group discussions - I find that creating opportunities for learners to learn from each other is a great way to support metacognition and motivation.

• Hands-on activities - The sky's the limit here! If you are looking for ideas, check out my book recommendations. I listed some of my favorites.

• PBL (problem-based learning or project-based learning) - actively engaging learners in the inquiry process and having them solve or interact with real-world challenges is highly motivating and is one of the most effective teaching and learning strategies. PBLs can be adapted for learners as young as preschool through higher education. For ECE teachers, the goal is play and interest-based inquiry for these projects. For all educators, you are helping learners develop critical skills needed beyond the classroom when you engage in inquiry-based learning approaches.

Learner-centered teaching methods prioritize learners' learning needs and interests rather than solely focusing on the teacher's curriculum perspective. This approach emphasizes active learning, collaboration, and critical thinking and aims to empower learners to take ownership of their education. In addition, developing a learner-centered teaching approach creates opportunities for Learner Agency (again, no matter the level you teach at). The importance of a Learner Agency lies in giving learners the power to control their learning process. This can increase motivation, engagement, and a deeper understanding of the studied material. It also helps learners develop essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making. Ultimately, Learner Agency can lead to more successful and independent learners better equipped to navigate life's challenges beyond the classroom.

A strength-based teaching perspective is an approach to education that focuses on identifying and building upon learners' strengths, abilities, and positive qualities rather than solely addressing their weaknesses. This perspective emphasizes recognizing and utilizing learners' unique talents, interests, and experiences to promote their learning and success in the classroom. In essence, having an equity-minded philosophy coupled with a strength-based perspective of learning creates an inclusive classroom environment for all.