Communication, listening, collaboration, adaptability, empathy, and patience are all characteristics of a good teacher.

An engaging classroom presence, value in real-world learning, the exchange of best practices, and a lifelong love of learning are also characteristics of effective teaching.

A good teacher can make a significant difference in a student's life, influencing everything from classroom learning to long-term success. If you're thinking about a career in education or want to advance your career with a Master of Education (MEd), you should research the characteristics of a good teacher.

According to Economic Policy Institute research, good teachers are the single most important factor influencing student achievement in the classroom, outweighing facilities, school resources, and even school leadership.

So, what Characteristics Characterize a Good Teacher?

Education faculty and students at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) discussed the characteristics that distinguish effective teachers.

1Good teachers are excellent communicators.

Strong communication skills are essential for effective teaching, according to Dr. Daniel Tanguay, senior associate dean of faculty and education programs.

Tanguay began his career as a high school math teacher, and he claims that many of his students came to his class fearful of math, discouraged by their previous experiences, and too overwhelmed to approach the subject positively.

Tanguay claims that by communicating with students at the start of the year about how math applies to their favorite hobbies, sports, and future careers, his students were able to approach the subject in a more enjoyable way that better supported their learning.

I am a firm believer in communication in all forms and shapes. Communication is essential as a leader.

2Effective teachers pay close attention

Great communication does not end when the teacher finishes speaking. One of the most important skills for a teacher is the ability to listen well.

"Teachers who are skilled in listening and observing often pick up on what isn't being said, such as any anxieties a student may have, and can then help the student build their skills and confidence levels," said Kristine Ducote, a criminal justice student.

According to Latricia Maddox, a business student, effective listening skills also help a teacher better understand their students and tailor lessons to reach them in the way they learn best.

If an educator can truly hear a student, they will be able to learn how to reach them where they are.They will be able to receive and learn the lesson that is being taught.

3Effective teachers emphasize collaboration

Working in education means that you are never truly alone. Working as a teacher often entails working effectively in a group, from paraprofessionals and teaching assistants to other classroom teachers and school leaders. It is also critical to maintain an open mind and learn from other educators.

Tanguay believes that the ability to collaborate is essential for success in this type of environment. "In order to collaborate effectively, you really need to be able to fill various roles," he said. "You don't need to participate if you already have someone on your team who will be the one to critique all of the suggestions made. Instead, perhaps you should be the one who comes up with creative ideas. That adaptability is required."

4Good teachers can adapt

Effective teachers must be able to work in a constantly changing environment and adjust their teaching methods based on their students' ages, available resources, and changing curriculum, practices, and requirements.

Dr. Audrey Rogers, SNHU education professor and on campus undergraduate program chairman, has been teaching since the 1980s and has witnessed tremendous changes in the education field, particularly with the rise in access to the internet, computers, and other technology. What will education look like in another 30 years? Change, according to Rogers, is the only constant.

"Change is a given," she said. "Learning to adapt and adjust has been one of the most useful skills in my career." It's about staying on top of who my students are over time, as well as all the trends, standards, and new research, and being able to continuously improve."

Adaptability is also one of the key skills required for a teacher who may be educating students of varying grade levels or learning styles, according to Tanguay.

"You must be able to adapt based on your audience," he explained.

5Good teachers are interactive

Tanguay believes that being able to engage students with humor, creative lessons, and a strong classroom presence is an important part of what makes someone a good teacher.

"If you were to imagine the type of teacher you'd want in your life, even now, you'd want someone who is very engaging in front of the classroom," he said. "A good teacher will put on a show for their students to keep them motivated... It's not about sitting back and lecturing; it's about getting involved in the work."

Tanguay believes that an engaging teacher will differ depending on grade level and subject matter.

In kindergarten, an engaging teacher may get down on the floor with their students to do activities at their level. In high school, an engaging teacher is one who thinks outside the box, incorporates humor into their lessons, and finds novel ways to apply what they've learned in the classroom.

6Good Teachers Demonstrate Empathy

Tanguay added that another key to engaging students and improving their learning is to treat each student as an individual by being empathetic and understanding of what is going on in their lives.

"We need to take a step back and consider what might be going on in this student's life," he said. "It's critical to be observant, attentive, empathetic, and to maintain a positive attitude at all times."

According to Rhonda Garrison, a student in SNHU's psychology program, empathy and understanding from a teacher can not only help that teacher connect with a student, but it can also have a direct impact on a student's learning in the classroom.

"What may be simple for one student may be difficult for another," she explained. "Everyone learns differently, whether faster or slower than normal, whether through writing, reading, or hands-on experience." Teachers must always keep this in mind and pay close attention to ensure that each student is on the right track."

7Excellent teachers are patient

Your patience will be tested as an educator, regardless of the grade level you teach.

Patience is one of the most important skills to practice as a teacher, whether you're managing classroom behavior, working with colleagues who hold opposing viewpoints, or communicating student issues or progress with parents.

"Most of the time, you have to be more patient with the parents than you do with the students," Tanguay said. "Parents are coming in with their perceptions of what happened to them as students or previous experiences that may have harmed their child... You must be patient and understanding toward them."

8Good Teachers Appreciate Real-World Learning

Teachers who apply their students' learning in the real world are often the most engaging. However, it is critical for teachers to apply their own learning in the classroom.

Rogers believes that providing education students with ample classroom experience early in their degree programs is one of the best ways to prepare them for effective teaching.

This preparation includes embedded coursework that begins in a student's freshman year for education majors in SNHU's on campus program. Once a week, they visit a local school to collaborate with teacher partners and apply their learning in the classroom.

According to Rogers, a year-long student teaching experience is also a powerful way to ensure that soon-to-be teachers have the time to hone their teaching skills.

"Our students have the benefit of seeing the practical application (of) what they're learning right now," she said.

9Effective teachers share best practices

One of the most important qualities of a good teacher, according to Rogers, is a willingness to share knowledge and experiences with others.

Education is a hands-on field that frequently necessitates classroom experimentation to determine which methods of communicating with students work best. According to Rogers, part of being an effective teacher is sharing your findings and best practices with others in the field.

"I always ask my students, 'What is your contribution?'" she says. "Are you brave enough to tweet about your ideas for integrating technology in the classroom?" Your willingness to share your practice, keep an open door, be transparent, and be observed is an important component of your teaching."

10Effective educators are lifelong learners

One of the most important qualities of a good teacher is a commitment to ongoing education and a love of learning.

Whether you're learning more about your subject area, trying out new communication methods, or looking into ways to incorporate more technology into your classroom, continuing to expand your own knowledge is critical to expanding that of your students.

"Those who are dedicated to their subjects and have a passion for learning make the best teachers," said Jennifer Gardner, a student pursuing a bachelor's degree in mathematics. "They must also want to pass on their knowledge."

According to Ducote, it is critical for teachers to never feel as if they have learned everything and to remain open to new experiences.

"No matter your level of education, you can learn something from everyone you meet, including fellow educators and students," she said. "Being willing to constantly add tools to your toolbox, even if they are unconventional at times, will keep things fresh and exciting while also providing you with excellent skills."

KEY POINTS TO TAKE HOME

If you want to start a career in education, you should first focus on your own education. Building a strong foundation of knowledge and real-world experiences is essential to becoming a good teacher, whether you're pursuing a bachelor's degree in education, an education master's degree, or even a Doctor of Education (EdD).

No matter where your career path takes you – whether to an elementary, secondary, or even university level – your teaching can have a profound impact on the lives of students, and your education is the foundation for that work.

Teachers have such a huge impact on the lives of their students. A teacher is a very special gift, and those who have that gift have the ability to make a positive, lasting impression on the lives of their students, which can completely change the trajectory of their lives.