Philadelphia Affiliate Professor Finds Partnership Between Student And Teacher To Be A Joyous Challenge
Joanne Broder Sumerson, Ph.D., an affiliate professor in Organization Development and Leadership at Saint Joseph's University, finds the student-teacher camaraderie to be the most challenging aspect in the field of teaching. It's a challenge for teachers to connect with their students, and a good teacher will help nurture that partnership. Dr. Sumerson shares with us her feelings about education as an educator.
What is the most challenging aspect of teaching in the classroom environment?
"Learning is a partnership between the teacher and the student. Helping students to relax and enjoy the learning process can be a challenge. Sometimes they can be overachiever and want to rush the process, but helping them learn from the process is a joyous challenge."
Do you have any advice for people wanting to enter into the teaching profession?
"Regardless if you are teaching physics, kindergarten or yoga, a good teacher has a branded style that distinguishes them from other teachers. Growing and learning about your teaching style and values is a journey, so be patient. It is an evolutionary process because we are always refining and developing, but eventually, you know yourself and create your teaching brand."
Are continuing education courses beneficial for teachers?
"Yes. They are beneficial because continuing education is an excellent form of professional development. The teachers can connect their rich, practical classroom experience to theoretical models and empirical data. They can help validate the models because they know work in real world classrooms and are also exposed to educational best practices."
Do you feel a masters education would be helpful in your day-to-day career?
"I earned a Masters in Adult and Organization Development and Ph.D. in Education Psychology from Temple University. So yes, a master's degree can be very beneficial in advancing your career to higher levels in the field of education."
Christina Thompson is a freelance travel writer living in Philadelphia. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
