“So, who learns more? You or your students?” Many teachers half-jokingly ask this question of each other, expecting the same answer every time: “Sometimes, I’m not sure whether it’s me or the kids doing the teaching in my class. My students teach me things I would never have dreamed of.” It seems that instructors in all fields encounter new experiences and challenges every day. The competent ones learn to adapt. Quickly, they begin to understand that their days of study have not ended, but, instead, have just begun. So, who learns more?
Most would indignantly argue that the entire purpose and definition of a student is to engage in the exercise of learning. After all, if a pupil is not gaining anything from his or her studies, he or she must be a very poor learner! However, the abilities of an instructor are certainly reflected in the aptitude of his or her students. Significantly, it is only possible for students to learn from material and lectures that they have read or observed, either directly or indirectly. Because the teacher generally regulates what is presented in class, his or her choices vastly impact potential to understand the topic at hand. If pupils desire to effectively complete all that is required for class, they will be influenced by the methods their professor uses to teach. Studying what is assigned in class is a common-sense way to pass tests. However, is studying the best way to learn?
Essentially, the act of teaching is the sharing of knowledge. When students sit down in class, they naturally expect the instructor to have some level of familiarity in the subject being taught. For instance, most students would be astounded to discover that a professor of economics is teaching their music theory course! Immediately, the instructor loses credence in the eyes of his or her pupils. To some degree, all teachers must possess the capacity to impart knowledge. But, where does this ability come from? It only comes from a genuine understanding of the subject being taught. In fact, all instructors must find some way to gain the necessary experience.
The truth is, a teacher must learn in order to teach. Academia is dynamic. Ideas, theories, and preferred techniques are always responding to new discoveries and research. How can an instructor cope in this ever-shifting environment? Qualified instructors can only survive through continuous learning. And, unlike students, who can only learn through observation, capable teachers are presented with the invaluable opportunity to learn through teaching. Students can only read pertinent material, listen to offered lectures, and utilize methods practiced by their teachers. Instructors can and should do all of this as well, in order to become familiar with their subject matter. However, they also spend time delivering lectures, choosing material, and designing the methods used by their students. These practical applications effectively reinforce the teacher’s understanding of his or her field.
What do students and instructors have in common? Both are professional learners. In order to excel at what they do, both must become effective at studying. Both must continue to read, write, and research. In a way, are not teachers students, too? Ultimately, any person who wishes to teach must also be willing to learn.