Novice to expert teachers

I agree with you that classroom routines are one of the most important things you can do for your students. By having set routines, it allows your students to be able to focus on what your expectations of them are for the day, without the wonder of what will happen next. It is important to be able to direct your students by knowing what techniques work best for them. I feel to be an 'expert' is a changing situation. Until we understand how a particular group of students best learns, it is then that we can shift to a more 'expert' role. Having the right tools along the way is what makes that transition easier.

I believe that it takes time for teachers to grow from novice to expert. I have seen teachers working to be an expert but along the way get set in their ways. I feel that an expert teacher should take as many professional development opportunities as they can so that there is not the option of getting set in our ways. This will help keep the door open to be a risk taker and try new things. The growth of becoming an expert teacher includes communicating with colleagues, parents and listening to our students.

I think we all are striving to be the best teachers we can be. Teachers never achieve “mastery”, we can always learn and grow just like our students. I would say it takes 5 years to move from novice to comfortable. After that it all depends on you and how active you are in achieving your personal goals and moving towards expert. I too am a second year teacher with a lot to still learn. When moving from novice to expert there are a lot of resources to consider. First you need to be committed to being a lifelong learner. Next you need to seek out professional resources. Look to your mentor teachers in your building and district. There is a lot of great information you can get from just having dialogue with your colleagues. Another idea is to talk to your school librarian. There is a plethora of professional resources for you that are just waiting for you to find them. Lastly take advantage of every professional development class offered in your district. In my school district there are classes nightly for all academic areas including technology. Keep seeking out opportunities for growth and keep self reflecting!

Your insights were very helpful! I am glad to hear that a 5th year teacher still feels they are moving towards expert on the continuum. I agree that teachers need to be flexible and have a positive attitude. Another interesting thing you said is that "expert" teachers never really know they are experts. I find this true of the teachers I know and consider "experts". Teachers are always striving to be better, we are all a work in progress!

When I began teaching, words like expert teacher did not exist. Back then, it was understood that the most veteran teachers were the experts. Even now, there is some similar routines to the school day and also the school year. The most challenging aspect of being an expert is being successful year after year with the changes in our society and expectations. Our global impact today in the stock market and businesses demand learners with some knowledge that was not expected twenty years ago. Now the expert teacher may be worldly and bi-lingual. The more years you teach in an environment that is supportive, the more your expertise will grow.