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.
Collaboration
As we enter the new millenium, we are aware that 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
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.
Inquiry
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.
