Ever wondered why your teenage students seem so impulsive, moody, and easily distracted? It's not just teenage angst; it's their brains! New research on adolescent brain development suggests a more positive outlook. Ellen Galinsky, author and researcher on adolescence, says this period is a "time of possibility" not one to be seen as inherently difficult.
Galinsky argues that during adolescence, the brain undergoes a significant rewiring process, making this period a time of both challenges and incredible opportunities. This "exploratory" phase is crucial for the students to develop essential life skills.
She also mentioned that we often associate early childhood learning with academic skills like reading, writing, and math. While these are undoubtedly important, the "soft skills" – such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and social-emotional skills – are equally crucial. These underlying skills actually support the development of academic abilities.
Over the past two decades, research has consistently shown that these soft skills are stronger predictors of success in education and life than factors like IQ or socioeconomic status.
So, what can you do to navigate the teenage brain?
Here are some tips:
Harness Their Curiosity: Teens are natural explorers. Feed their curiosity with engaging lessons and projects. Let them dive deep into topics that interest them. To do that, you first need to know what their interests are. Try finding out through a questionnaire or have a "getting to know each other" lesson in which the students will share what they like and dislike.
Leverage the Power of Social Learning: Teens thrive on social interaction. Group work, discussions, and peer feedback can make learning fun and effective. To take it further try some project-based learning techniques, as that will require more engagement and organization from them. This way even the ones who don't usually do much work will be encouraged to do it.
Tech, Yes, But Wisely: Don't demonize technology. Use it as a tool to enhance learning. For example, have your students use social media to research current events and discuss their findings. But set boundaries and guide their digital habits.
Set High Expectations: Believe in your students and let them know you expect great things from them. Your belief in their abilities can significantly impact their motivation and performance. Set challenging goals and provide the support they need to achieve them.
Be Patient and Supportive: Remember, they're still learning and growing. Offer guidance, encouragement, and a safe space to make mistakes. Empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of another, can significantly enhance your effectiveness as a teacher, particularly when working with teenagers. Listen actively and validate your students' feelings.
What are your best tips for teaching teenagers? Let us know in the comments :)
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