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Behind classroom doors; the life of a teacher

Every day, thousands of teachers across UAE schools face the tough task of making the day more interesting for students.

From rising early to seeing off the last student after school hours, working as a teacher is not easy. Every day, thousands of teachers across UAE schools face the tough task of making the day more interesting for students. Muaz Shabandri gets a glimpse into the life of teachers. Part one of the series

Rob Ingham

Uptown School

About yourself ...

I have been teaching for 13 years, 10 of which have been here in Dubai. My first three years were in the UK. To be honest, when I left school I didn’t really know what I wanted to do! Through college placements, which involved spending time working in primary schools, I quickly came to realise that it was something I not only enjoyed, but felt made me useful.

Favourite memory as a teacher ...

It is my passionate belief that students should be architects of their own learning, and should be encouraged or allowed to make independent decisions and judgments that move their learning and understanding forward. When I see this happening, I am reminded why I chose to do what I do. This, in part, is one of the single biggest reasons why I enjoy teaching the primary years programme curriculum in an IB school.

Different roles played by a teacher ...

Certainly more mentor than counsellor. I see my role as being one where I need to guide and support the children I work with, through whatever stage of their learning journey they may be at. Maybe it might feel like we are social workers sometimes, but this (again) is where the positive relationship and support from parents is so vital.

Technology as a tool to educate ...

In short, yes it’s difficult (and feels overwhelming at times), but certainly not something I have any regrets about deciding to do.  The requirements to maintain ‘skill levels’ with regard to new technology is, and shouldn’t be, no different to any other area of professional development  — maintaining and enhancing a teachers’ skill set (including the use and integration of learning technology) ... (and) should be expected as part of the role.

Biggest obstacle to teaching ...

Though not necessarily an obstacle, without the support of parents, teaching can be very difficult. Habits and attitudes taught and modelled in the home come into the classroom where they can interfere with (the) learning environment at school. I have been fortunate throughout my career to teach at schools where parents are encouraged to become engaged, and support their child’s learning. I believe this benefits us, and most importantly, students enormously.

muaz@khaleejtimes.com

 Asha Flavia Dmello

GEMS New Millennium School

About yourself ...

I have been in the teaching profession for 10 years. The passion with which my teachers taught me inspired me to take up this profession.

Favourite memory as a teacher ...

One day, a student from Grade 1 was crying bitterly and was not ready to share his feelings with anybody. I called him to find out the reason. The child said that he lost his tooth and was afraid that he was growing old and going to die. I brought him closer to me and showed him other students who lost their teeth as well. I tried to pacify him saying this is nature’s cycle. Only when he loses his teeth will he grow new teeth and grow handsome. I also told him that I would like to meet him in his youth. His face glowed with happiness and he stopped crying. Later, he started showing interest in his studies as well.

Different roles played by a teacher ...

A teacher plays various roles.  It would depend on your definition of social worker. As teachers, we look for the overall development of the students and build up their confidence. We prepare them to face life situations.

Technology as a tool to educate ...

GEMS New Millennium School provides us with enough professional development to help us to keep up with technology, so we don’t feel a challenge as such. Teaching should not be limited to technology. The human factor is very important. We teachers are dealing with human beings. Our priority should be the student, not just the subject we teach.

Biggest obstacle to teaching

I think the biggest obstacle is understanding and then catering to the needs of each individual student.