Know Your Teacher: ‘I am passionate about helping students learn and grow’

Did you know that building a rapport with your teacher enables them to understand your strengths, weaknesses, and learning style? Believe it or not, this personalised approach can lead to more effective teaching and better academic performance. A strong teacher-student relationship promotes open communication. Students can ask questions, seek clarifications, and discuss any concerns they might have, leading to a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

Understanding the teacher’s cultural background and values can be crucial in building mutual respect and avoiding misunderstandings. Let’s meet Minakshi Tiwari, an academic coordinator and Physics teacher at Apeejay School, Kharghar.

Excerpts from the interview.

Tell us about yourself, your qualifications, and your certifications if any.

I bring a diverse background in education to contribute to the team’s success. I am a proactive and adaptable professional who excels in problem-solving and delivering high-quality results. I completed my BSc (H) in Physics and Masters in Physics from Miranda House, Delhi University. After that, I completed my BEd from Delhi University.

How did you get interested in teaching?

I am passionate about helping students learn and grow, both academically and personally. As a teacher, I have an opportunity to make an impact on young people during a critical time in their lives by teaching them important life skills and providing guidance that will help them shape their future.

What is the most memorable aspect of teaching?

One of the most important parts of teaching is having dedication. Teachers not only listen but also coach and mentor their students. They can help shape academic goals and are dedicated to getting their students to achieve them.

What is a typical day like for you?

As an academic coordinator, I oversee the school’s curricular and co-curricular activities, liaise with teachers, and ensure the effective implementation of educational policies. I am also involved in planning school events, organising resources, and maintaining a vibrant educational environment.

How and why did you choose Apeejay to teach?

I chose this school for its belief in the holistic development of the students. Apeejay schools strive ceaselessly to live up to it in their quest for excellence, in all dimensions of education, and in life itself.

How do you motivate your students to study?

Motivating students while teaching a subject and providing classroom management is a juggling act. First and foremost, it is critical to develop relationships with the students. Teachers need to develop quality relationships, as interpersonal relationships in the school setting influence children’s development and positively impact student outcomes. This includes their motivation to learn, behaviour, and cognitive skills.

Parents are a key factor in students’ motivation. This involves involving parents and soliciting their aid to help encourage students. Talk less, listen more, and encourage the students to talk. Involving students in decision-making and providing them opportunities to lead are conducive to a student-centred learning environment.

What are the challenges that have come up post-COVID while teaching students?

In the post-COVID times, students are facing serious challenges of learning losses, reduced academic skills, over-exposure, and dependence on the Internet and gadgets. As teachers, we need to walk the extra mile for students to help them learn concepts easily and interestingly.