Great teachers focus on helping all students reach their potential
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Ability according to gender is and has always been a controversial subject. Studies in the UK now show that girls are clearly outperforming boys in nearly all subjects at age 16. They are also gaining ground at age 18. Although the picture is less clear in international schools, it is still an issue that needs considering.
The prevailing view is that the current education system in many parts of the world is now modeled to suit the learning styles of girls rather than boys. Structured timetables, coursework and an emphasis on organizational skills all lend themselves towards a system that favors girls. Boys learn best in a more fluid system where it is about performance on the day. Some educationalists even see the differences rooted in science. Estrogen in our female students helps them to be organized and rational; testosterone in boys does the exact opposite!
For our students in an international context it is harder to judge. We are fortunate at NAIS Pudong that we don’t find evidence of social stigmas of boys working hard at school as we do in countries in Europe. Our boys are motivated and produce excellent academic results. What is more important is for our teachers to understand that boys and girls learn in different ways. An excellent teacher understands this and builds it in to their professional practice both in and outside of the classroom. Giving boys clear deadlines and helping them with their organization, whilst at the same time helping female students to be more time focused and willing to share their ideas vocally, provides an environment where all students thrive.
As a teacher and father of three sons, I know getting it right regardless of gender is difficult. Perhaps the really important question is not how we can get it right for both boys and girls, but rather how we can get it right for every child regardless of gender, or where they are from. Maximizing the potential of every child lies at the foundation of all good schools’ beliefs and this is best served by outstanding teachers who are relentless in their pursuit of excellence.
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