A sense of hope, or faith combined with optimism, positively alters chemicals in the brain and influences decision-making and problem-solving abilities. Educators who implement practices that ensure students have a sense of hope, understand that mistakes are not permanent, and view success as within reach will be more likely to have students who are more persistent learners who put forth the effort needed to be successful.
Teachers have a direct effect on student performance through their daily work in the classroom. Much of this comes through the school’s classroom visit feedback support cycle.
When we feel like we matter, we can do our jobs better and feel more fulfilled. For educators, this can make the difference between staying in teaching or leaving. Researchers
Feeling part of something is key to being the best we can possibly be both personally and professionally, but the nuances of belonging are important.
Making connections, managing schedules, and building up student confidence isn’t always easy, but support from experienced colleagues can make an impactful difference.
Communities must consider the wraparound services — mental health counseling, food banks, etc., may be needed in order to promote accelerated learning in students.
By building connections and looking into the social and emotional well-being of students, teachers can accelerate learning.
Being an effective teacher is about more than just improving test scores—it’s also about making a difference in students’ lives.
Research shows that hope is a measurable, learnable skill—and to feel hopeful, students and teachers have to work at it.
This think piece is from Rick Hess, a resident scholar at the American Enterprise Institute and the director of the think tank’s Education Policy Studies. This piece focuses on student
There is no single strategy for success. But positivity, flexibility, a desire to keep improving, and empathy will help along the way.
