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Master teachers are characterized by collaboration, reflection and directed inquiry. At Elon University, we strive to develop these qualities in our Master of Education students throughout their graduate experience.
As we enter the new millenium, we are aware a community of learners is larger than a single school community. It extends to encompass professional, business, service and social communities, all of whom play a part in contributing to a vast knowledge-building society. Master teachers should be leaders in this community — collaborating, orchestrating and synthesizing so that education is pervasive and integral to the progress of our society.
Reflection is a habit of mind for master teachers. They routinely consider how their instructional practice mirrors current understanding of teaching and learning. They compare their performance with that of other master teachers and constantly strive to improve their practice. They are aware of core values and endeavor to create a learning environment that reflects essential principles of character so that all students experience personal success.
Master teachers formulate and encourage good questions based on critical thought. They recognize that purposeful questioning is the result of reflection and leads to essential understanding and insight. Master teachers understand that questions empower when framed as guides for collaborative action. When we ask, "How might we?" we acknowledge personal responsibility and our own centrality in finding answers.