Tell us about a time when you implemented a new teaching method or technique. How did it impact student learning?
Elementary School Teacher Interview Questions
Sample answer to the question
In my previous teaching position, I implemented a new teaching technique called project-based learning. I noticed that some of my students were struggling to stay engaged and motivated in traditional classroom activities, so I decided to try something different. I introduced a project-based learning unit where students had to work in groups to research, plan, and execute a project related to the topic we were studying. The impact on student learning was remarkable. Not only did it increase their knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, but it also developed their critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills. Students were more excited and actively engaged in the learning process, which resulted in improved academic performance and a more positive classroom environment.
A more solid answer
During my time as an elementary school teacher, I implemented a new teaching method called flipped classroom. In a flipped classroom, I recorded video lessons and assigned them as homework, allowing students to watch the lectures at their own pace. During class time, we focused on discussions, group activities, and hands-on projects related to the lesson content. This new approach had a significant impact on student learning. It allowed for more personalized instruction and catered to the different learning styles and paces of my students. The interactive activities and discussions in the classroom fostered a deeper understanding of the concepts and improved their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Additionally, the flipped classroom model increased student engagement and motivation, as they had more ownership over their learning. As a result, I witnessed improved academic performance and a positive shift in the classroom dynamics.
Why this is a more solid answer:
The solid answer provides a more comprehensive description of the new teaching method implemented and its impact on student learning. It explicitly addresses the evaluation areas of creating a dynamic and interactive classroom experience and motivating and encouraging students. However, it could benefit from more specific examples and evidence to support the claims made in the answer.
An exceptional answer
In my experience as an elementary school teacher, I implemented a new teaching technique called project-based learning. To introduce this method, I collaborated with a local science museum and organized a field trip for my students. Before the trip, we explored the concept of ecosystems in class, and I assigned each student a specific ecosystem to research. At the museum, they participated in hands-on activities and experiments related to their assigned ecosystems. Back in the classroom, the students worked collaboratively to create a comprehensive project showcasing their knowledge and understanding of ecosystems. The impact on student learning was remarkable. Not only did they gain a deep understanding of ecosystems, but they also developed critical thinking, problem-solving, research, and presentation skills. The project-based learning approach encouraged them to take ownership of their learning and motivated them to explore and discover new information on their own. As a result, their academic performance improved, and they exhibited a higher level of engagement and enthusiasm in class.
Why this is an exceptional answer:
The exceptional answer provides a detailed and specific example of the new teaching technique implemented. It also highlights the collaboration with external organizations to enhance student learning. The answer demonstrates a thorough understanding of the evaluation areas and explicitly addresses the impact on student learning. The answer could be further enhanced by including quantitative data or specific anecdotes to support the claims made.
How to prepare for this question
- Research different teaching methods and techniques
- Identify a specific instance where you implemented a new teaching method and its impact on student learning
- Prepare examples and evidence of how the teaching method improved student engagement and academic performance
- Practice communicating the details of the teaching method and its impact in a concise and compelling manner
What interviewers are evaluating
- Ability to create a dynamic and interactive classroom experience
- Ability to motivate and encourage students
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