The Editor, Sir:

I believe that a guaranteed way for one to become an effective teacher, and find fulfilment in it, is to simply teach the subject he is weakest in. I always knew I wanted to teach, as I've always had a passion for the profession. My only concern was in deciding what subject to teach. Well, I was always good at English. Using the written word to express creative ideas has never been a challenge. It seemed to have come naturally.

However, picturing myself in a classroom and teaching English, stirs certain fears in me. For example, if a child raises his hand and asks that I explain what a verb is, I would freeze in ignorance. How can someone not know what a verb is? Isn't it something we are almost born knowing? How on earth do I deal with this situation? Lord deliver me.

Taking the challenge

On the other hand, let's say I choose to teach math instead. I can vividly recall scoring marks less than zero a few times for getting every question wrong, in addition to losing marks for forgetting to write my name on the paper. Now, if through sound instruction, I make the commitment to be determined to conquer my fear of the subject and work consistently hard at it, then I will become an effective teacher of that subject, guaranteed.

Think about it. The best guidance counsellors are often those who severely lacked guidance in their youth; The best fitness instructors are often those who were once terribly out of shape and unhealthy; The best singers are often those who were told when young to find a serious profession. Pedagogy is no different.

To all the youngsters out there who are at a place where they do not know what to do with their life, my advice is this: You are an effective teacher waiting to happen. Simply identify the subject that you have always struggled with the most. Then, with the help of God, be brave enough and fierce enough to conquer that subject.

I am, etc.,

SHELDON McDONALD

sheldon.mcdonald@hotmail.com

Via Go-Jamaica