“Those Who Can, Do. Those Can’t, Teach!” : Breaking The Myth

Dec 2

by: Sharon Dorothy Simbolon

Teachers hold utmost importance in our society. They let children realize their purpose, motivate them to achieve success, and help shape the future. However, people often underestimate the role of teachers and the preparation required for an individual to become one, which is why the assumption of teaching being an easy job requiring no skills and talents needs to be debunked!

Rigorous Four - Year Course

You can't simply tell a person with no knowledge of teaching, share their understanding with hundreds of people in a room. According to Law Number 14 (2005), the general requirements for becoming a teacher in Indonesia include:

Completing a four-year university degree or four years of higher education
Having a teacher certificate
Demonstrating professional, pedagogical, personal, and social competencies

This proves that those with lesser capabilities, skills, and talents do NOT have the same level of competency to teach as those who are dedicated enough to become teachers to make a living. People who are not qualified to be teachers will not be able to manage the process of effective teaching and learning, resulting in the poor performances of students. This brings about the question: Why students must plan their careers and future?

Multi-faceted Profession

The average teacher is responsible for preparing lesson plans and educating students by assigning homework and tasks, grading papers, managing classroom materials, collaborating with other staff, observing and documenting each student's progress. They also need to understand and fully master a particular topic they choose to deliver the most accurate and understandable content for the students to comprehend fully.

Moreover, teachers are not only saddled with the primary tasks of educating students, but they also act as role models. Yes, one of the best models that anyone could have is that person standing in front of the classroom. Students look up to them and, even after graduation, will look back into these memories with fondness. In addition, teachers also serve as counselors for many students who turn to them for guidance. They also fill what is lacking in a student's life_ a support system, a buddy, a listener, a coach, a mentor, and name them all! They do not merely work for paychecks but for their passion for youth and education.

Important Figures in History

Several teachers have been recognized in history for their dedication to bringing out the best in their students. An example of this would be Anne Sullivan, the teacher of Hellen Keller. Due to an illness, Hellen Keller lost her hearing and eyesight at the age of two, but this never hindered Sullivan from bringing Helen Keller much acclaim. Although she was only in her 20's when she started teaching Helen, Sullivan showed much maturity and ingenuity. Keller learned nearly 600 words and how to read Braille. With Sullivan's dedication, passion, skills, and commitment as a teacher, Keller passed the entrance exams for Harvard's Radcliffe College in 1899 and enrolled there in 1900.

Amazing Role during the Pandemic with the Online Learning

Learning is brought to respective homes through online learning, and teachers underwent a seismic shift. In a short period, teachers learnt the rudiments of online classes, zoom, Microsoft teams, Google Meet, and a multitude of engaging educational software. They quickly adapt and upskill to help minimize any disruption in learning. They work almost 24-7 to ensure their students understand the lessons through the screen.