The Elements of Trust
By Peter W. Cookson, Jr.

Teaching is a profession, but it's also an art. To teach is to "draw out" – real learning always begins from inside the mind and heart of the student. Do you remember your favorite teacher? What was she or he like? Inspirational? Fair? Patient? But what really enabled you to learn?

A teacher who establishes a bond of trust in the classroom leads learning by example and energy. Study after study shows that reliable, honest and consistent relationships are the key to creating robust learning communities.

Simply put, the character of the teacher is the foundation of an inspirational classroom. And the core value in the character of the great teacher is trust…trust yourself, trust your students, trust in the belief that all children can learn. What are the elements of trust in the classroom?

Honesty. Children are very aware of hypocrisy and double-dealing in the classroom. Establish from the first day a system of conflict identification and resolution. You'll be remembered by what you approve of, what you disapprove of and what you let happen.

Fairness. Justice begins at the classroom door. Nothing can tear apart a classroom quicker than when certain students are favored over others and rewards aren't distributed according to merit. Check yourself if you find you're calling on just a few students; make sure every student is recognized.

Consistency. We all have our good and bad days. Remember that for a student, a bad day for you is a miserable day for her or him. Learning requires a firm, reliable classroom atmosphere. If you are upset about something, create a classroom activity that allows you to step back and deal with your own feelings.

Humor. A classroom without laughter is like toast without jam. Humor is not an add-on, it's the best relationship builder. Too much of educational "policy" today overlooks the fact that engagement is essential for learning and humor is the most human and easy form of engagement we have. Don't be afraid to laugh....especially at yourself.

Teaching is an adventure and requires taking some risks. A strong, caring teacher is a learning leader who builds relationships based on the principles of honesty, fairness, consistency and humor. Above all, don't be afraid to be yourself!

Peter W. Cookson, Jr. is President of Teachers College Innovations and the Doris Dillon Center at Teachers College, Columbia University. He is also founder of the Center for Educational Outreach & Innovation at Teachers College.

October 2003, Vol.34, No.2