In the words of Benjamin Franklin, Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.
I believe that learning begins with the individual - no teacher can make unwilling students learn, but a good teacher can inspire them to want to learn.
My experience has shown that enthusiasm and confidence come about when students feel ownership of their subject- an understanding of its purpose and its value in the bigger picture.
The role of the modern teacher, therefore, is to build and foster this enthusiasm, encouraging students to critically analyse and think laterally, to cultivate understanding without reliance on rote learning. Confidence is promoted through inclusive teaching practices that encourage participation in a safe learning environment.